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Cornelis VAN DUFFELEN

September 19, 2005

VAN DUFFELEN

Cornelis (Neil) Reinier of Abbotsford died peacefully on September 19, 2005 with his wife by his side, following an intense and stubborn battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife Margaret and cherished son Jesse. Neil is also survived by his family; sisters Helena (John), Anne, Carla (David) and brother Simon (Jane) of Ontario and Alberta, plus other relatives in Holland. He will also be remembered with love by Margaret’s family; Lee and Ron Leck, Noreen, Harris (Fran) and Chris (Shelley). Many cousins, nieces, nephews and special friends will miss him with sadness and affection. Special mention toTerri Romegioli, Neil’s loyal and devoted legal assistant of 20 years. Also, special thanks to the Legear family for their love and support.

Neil was born March 20, 1946 in Vlaardingen, The Netherlands. He immigrated to Canada with his parents and some of his siblings in 1957. Neil’s education included two years at the University of Waterloo and the same at Carlton University, Ottawa where he received his B.A. in Political Science and Economics. He then entered the University of Ottawa where he earned his LLB in 1978. He articled in law at Langley, B.C. and was called to the Bar in January 1981. Since that time, he has enjoyed a very successful law practice in Langley. Neil had several interests and hobbies including; crossword puzzles, travel (especially his summer trips with his son), model railroading and particularly gardening which he indulged in with great enthusiasm and energy. In recent years “Straiton Dahlias” has attracted many admirers in the Fraser Valley. As a director on the board of the Abbotsford Farmers Market Society, Neil became known as the “Dahlia Man”. Neil had a great sense of humour and a deep love of family and friends. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of life will be held at Henderson’s Funeral Home, 34537 Marshall Road, Abbotsford, B.C. on Friday, September 30 at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the B.C. Cancer Agency, Care and Research, 13750 96th Avenue, Surrey, B.C. V3V 1Z2 or the Abbotsford Hospice Society, 33134 Marshall Road, Abbotsford, B.C. V2V 1K5 would be appreciated.

Flowers for the service will be from Neil’s garden.

Special thanks to Dr. Donald Ross and the staff of 2 East and 3 West at MSA Hospital, Abbotsford who treated Neil with the dignity and respect that he so well deserved.

Henderson’s Funeral Home

604-854-5534



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