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John Henry Damen

May 9, 2016

After a courageous effort and with the support of his wife and children, John Henry Damen, of Dorchester, passed away at University Hospital on Monday, May 9th, 2016 in his 67th year. Beloved husband and best friend of Carol (Laver) Damen. Devoted father of Andrew Damen (Jessica), Ryan Damen (Charlotte), Lindsay Damen (Paul) and Emily Malec (Adam). Cherished Papa of Gabriel, Sarah, Charlie, Joel, Jack, Henry, Sloane, Sebastian, Simon, Maeve and baby Malec. Loving brother of Betsy Grimminck (Toby), Bert Damen, Mary Michiels (John), Anne Giesen (Harry), Bernie Van Ryswyk (Tony), Jerry Damen (Kim) and Gerda Hunter (Jim). Dear brother-in-law of Linda and Glenn Brogden. Our sincerest thank you to the Critical Care Doctors and Nurses at University Hospital. Visitation will be held on Friday from 2:00-4:00 and 7:00-9:00 p.m. at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, where the Celebration of Life will be conducted on Saturday, May 14th, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. Interment at Dorchester Union Cemetery on Monday. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of John are asked to consider Habitat for Humanity. 

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Dear Carol , we are so saddened to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family at this difficult time.

~ Helen & Eckhart Reichenbach

Carol please accept my condolences for you and your family . I will keep you in my thoughts .

~ Helga Benoit

Dear Damen Family We are very saddened by the news of John's passing. We have known him for many years, even attended high school with John at CCH, and then watched our children at many cold arenas as the years went by. Know that you are in our prayers and thoughts during this very difficult time. Cherish your memories - they will last you a life time.

~ Mary Ann (Hoevenaars) & Tom McLaughlin

Dear Damen family, We were honored to attend the celebration of John's life tonight. Your beautiful words and tributes gave us the picture of a loving man who lived life to the fullest and saw the best in everyone. We can all only hope to be a little more like John Damen. Sincerely, Jessica and Bart Drennan

~ Jessica Drennan

Carol and family thinking of you, sending my deepest sympathy

~ Rosemarie McCurdy

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Betty and Jim Jihnston

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Cheryl Wertman

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ mary beierling and joanne drury

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Dan & Ann McMillan

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ West Elgin CHC

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Joanne Thomson

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Form & Build Supply Inc.

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ The Loos Family

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ John & Corrine Ham

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Jim and Deb Yates

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Nancy& David Parsons

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Mary Bentley

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Linda Churchill

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Robert Smyth and Danielle, Terri-Lynne. Bobbi, Alli

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Rob (Bobby) Giesen & Rhonda MacKinnon

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Dr. Smita Chackungal

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Hopkins Family

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Joanne granger

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Religion Dept

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Sharon Fisher

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Bonnie Bishop

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Fay and Patrick Sutherland

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Louis & Shirley Michiels

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Brittany Wielgosz + Robbie Pryde

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Brian & Mary Arnold

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Brian Courtis

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Nancie Irving & Darrell Kington

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Mary Lou MacAlpine

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Gilles and Barbara Nadeau

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Scotiabank St. Marys, ON

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Gord & Cathy Cannon

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Hickory Chicks

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

~ Debbie & Tom Booz

(Donated to Habitat for Humanity)

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Dear Carol and Family: This is a tough note to write. Over the last year John and I became hard and fast friends while playing many rounds of golf at Tamarack Ridge. John was such a fun loving and family loving guy to play a round of golf with. We shared a whole lot of laughs as we hacked around the links together. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole Damen clan. He will be sorely missed indeed. Hang onto all those great memories!

~ Dan & Ann McMillan

My heart is broken and I am deeply saddened by this terrible news. Such a wonderful man who had a profound impact on everyone who met him. Our hearts and prayers go out to you Carol, Emily, Lindsay, Ryan, Andrew as well as to the spouses, grandchildren and extended family. Love to all.

~ Lori Collins

We are very saddened by this news. Please accept our sincere sympathy and know that we are thinking of you and your family during a very difficult time. John always had a welcoming smile and cheerful nature. He was a good man.

~ ken and judy vardon

Keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers during this terribly sad time.

~ Jude and Barry

Carol and family, so saddened by the news of John. He was always such a joy and had a great sense of humour! The entire community will feel the loss of such a wonderful man. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. 💜

~ Mary-Anne Haasen and family

My heartfelt condolences to the entire Damen family for your loss. To my dear friend Carol, words cannot express my sorrow for you. May you all feel the love and support that surrounds you not only in the coming days but always.

~ Kerri Young-Johnson

Carol, and Family: My sincerest condolences. May you be given the strength as you lay your beloved John to rest. Carol, my respect for John ran deep, and it is mostly because of how he loved you. I hope you and your family are comforted in the love and warmth of your dear ones and community at this time. Many hugs

~ Hilda Boeringa

Dear Carol and family...there are no words to comfort you and your family..thinking of all of you during this most difficult time..may God give you the strength you need during your time of sorrow...thoughts and prayers go out to you xo Sincerely Sabrina and Jim Young

~ Sabrina and Jim Young

Andrew, Jess & Family, Our sincere condolences. You guys are in our thoughts & prayers. Josh and Jess

~ Josh Geddis and Jessica Langan

Our condolences to the entire Damon family. We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your husband, father, grandfather...our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

~ Mary and Greg Boughner

Our condolences to the Damon family. He was a great men. I always enjoyed running into John and catching up with him. He will be missed by all.

~ Dan Stratton and family

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Your family is in my prayers.

~ Patti Swanson

Holding you all in my thoughts, heartbroken for your loss.

~ Susan Thomas

Carol & family: John was a very cherished husband, father & papa. What man could ask for better? You will all miss him so much, as will those of us who called him friend. My heart goes out to all of you at this sad time.

~ Helen Holmes

rip

~ randall huffman

My heart goes out to my dear sweet friend Emily and her family. May the love and support of your family and friends give you some comfort during days ahead.

~ Debra Hart

Carol and family, this is such a loss. Your father/husband was a great man and I saw this in all of you. I will never forget the first time that I met him. Ryan and I had just arrived home from a school trip, there was a snow storm and my parents couldn't make it into London to get me. Without hesitation, Ryan asked his Dad if this stranger could come home with them and stay the night because he had no place to stay or go that night. "Jump in" were his exact words. That was Mr.Damen. Quick with a joke, a welcoming smile or some work that needed to be done while he had a couple of young able bodied boys around. "Ryan, you can have the van when the work is done. If your friend want to help you move those 60 bundles of shingles on to the roof, all the better." That was Mr.Damen. Having been from the same, great heritage as John, he would always have a greeting or saying in Dutch for me when we would meet. I could never bring myself to tell him that I only understood the bad words, but I think that deep down he always knew that. It was his way of reminding us of where we came from and not to forget that. That was Mr.Damen. Spending the last 24 years of my life knowing the Damen family and growing up with them, I don't have enough time for all the stories and memories that pour out now. I see John in Carol. Their welcoming home was my second growing up. I see Dad in Andrew, Ryan, Lindsay and Emily. Their drive, understanding, love and respect that John taught them all. Though John has passed, he will forever live on because how he has touched all of our lives. Carol and kids, you have my deepest condolences, love and prayers. A great man has been lost.

~ Matt Naus

It has been so inspiring to witness the love between John and Carol.....truly soul mates in life. Also hearing John speaking about the love and pride that he had in his family, who meant the world to him....You will be sorely missed, and my heart is broken for your loss. One more bright star in the sky

~ Jane Collins

Dearest Carol and family. There are no words that will ease your pain. Take comfort in knowing you are loved by many. You are in my prayers. Sending love💞💖💞

~ Jean L Price

Carol & family! We were so shocked to learn of John's medical condition and even more so to learn of his passing. It was always a pleasure to be around John whether it be from ball, volleyball, around the community or from working at Fanshawe. He truly was a fun guy and will be missed by so many. Our prayers are with you.

~ Phyllis & Keith Johnston

I had never met your Dad, Andrew, until he showed up at my house to help you and Ryan reshingle my roof - about seven or eight years ago now. His love of family and his zest for life was apparent immediately. We struck up a great conversation - while we watched you and Ryan do all the heavy lifting. It was apparent then that your Dad loved his family and was very proud of all of you. He enjoyed life - and enjoyed people. I would run into him periodically at events we attended together - concerts at St. Mike's and birthday celebrations. He would always be the one to come over and offer a friendly hello - as if I were a long lost friend; this - despite the fact that I had only met him a couple of times previously. I certainly came to enjoy those conversations. Love the pics that Jess posted from your birthday party....dancing away and wearing those goofy glasses - enjoying life and enjoying people. The emptiness left behind must seem overwhelming - I pray that, in time, his presence will be felt by many people through the enjoyment of life and the enjoyment of people that defines your family - Your Dad's legacy perhaps. On behalf of Linda, Shawn, Ryan and Erin - please accept our heartfelt sympathies and condolences. Peace - and a love of life to all.

~ Tim O'Connor

I had never met your Dad, Andrew, until he showed up at my house to help you and Ryan reshingle my roof - about seven or eight years ago now. His love of family and his zest for life was apparent immediately. We struck up a great conversation - while we watched you and Ryan do all the heavy lifting. It was apparent then that your Dad loved his family and was very proud of all of you. He enjoyed life - and enjoyed people. I would run into him periodically at events we attended together - concerts at St. Mike's and birthday celebrations. He would always be the one to come over and offer a friendly hello - as if I were a long lost friend; this - despite the fact that I had only met him a couple of times previously. I certainly came to enjoy those conversations. Love the pics that Jess posted from your birthday party....dancing away and wearing those goofy glasses - enjoying life and enjoying people. The emptiness left behind must seem overwhelming - I pray that, in time, his presence will be felt by many people through the enjoyment of life and the enjoyment of people that defines your family - Your Dad's legacy perhaps. On behalf of Linda, Shawn, Ryan and Erin - please accept our heartfelt sympathies and condolences. Peace - and a love of life to all.

~ Tim O'Connor

I had never met your Dad, Andrew, until he showed up at my house to help you and Ryan reshingle my roof - about seven or eight years ago now. His love of family and his zest for life was apparent immediately. We struck up a great conversation - while we watched you and Ryan do all the heavy lifting. It was apparent then that your Dad loved his family and was very proud of all of you. He enjoyed life - and enjoyed people. I would run into him periodically at events we attended together - concerts at St. Mike's and birthday celebrations. He would always be the one to come over and offer a friendly hello - as if I were a long lost friend; this - despite the fact that I had only met him a couple of times previously. I certainly came to enjoy those conversations. Love the pics that Jess posted from your birthday party....dancing away and wearing those goofy glasses - enjoying life and enjoying people. The emptiness left behind must seem overwhelming - I pray that, in time, his presence will be felt by many people through the enjoyment of life and the enjoyment of people that defines your family - Your Dad's legacy perhaps. On behalf of Linda, Shawn, Ryan and Erin - please accept our heartfelt sympathies and condolences. Peace - and a love of life to all.

~ Tim O'Connor

Andrew & Family, Sorry for your loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers during this very sad time.

~ Olga & Dan Green

We are so sorry to hear this news. Carol are hearts are with you.

~ Janice and Pete Zimmer

Dear Carol and family We are so sorry for your loss. John will be missed by family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Eliska and John

Dear Carol and family ... I was so shocked and very sorry to read of John's passing. Although it has been many years, I have fond memories of John. His warmth and great sense of humour are not to be forgotten. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

~ Deb Caldwell

Carol and family. I am so sorry to hear about John. He was one of the first people I met when I joined Unity. I will always remember him as friendly, helpful, and with the most wonderful smile on his face...a smile that could light up the world. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Cathy Obright

Carol and kids...we are so sorry to learn of your loss. We had many fun times with John and remember his laugh and big smile so well. His love for his family was obvious to all who knew him. We pray those good memories will comfort you during this time. Love and prayers to you all. Carol...my heart is with you my friend.

~ Dayle and Jim Allan

Carol and family, such a shock to wake to this sad news this morning. He will be missed by the many people he has touched during his life. We will keep you all in our prayers at this time and in the difficult days to come.

~ Beverly and Dennis Haggerty

Dear Carol and Family, Loving hugs and positive energy going out to you. Remembering you Carol and John as a loving, caring couple who showed genuine good natured support whenever you appeared. May all of that support continue to go out to you in the coming times.

~ Pauline Duncan-Thrasher

Dear Carol: I am so sorry to hear of John's untimely passing. May the strength of your children and grandchildren help you at this difficult time. I will keep you in my prayers.

~ Mary Swindell

Carol and Family, So very sorry to hear of your loss. You and John made such a wonderful couple and have a beautiful family together. You are in my thoughts at this difficult time.

~ Donna Murray

I had the pleasure of being taught by John at Fanshawe College in the mid eighties. He was a great mentor, teacher and friend. He had some funny stories, and was an excellent instructor. Great memories. Thinking of the family during your difficult time. Craig Fellner London

~ Craig Fellner

I am so sad to hear about John's passing. A great man has gone to heaven. I cannot imagine that his life was cut short so soon. My thoughts are with you Carol and family as you go through the next days and weeks without him. Just remember all the good memories and share them often with each other.

~ Leny Vermeeren

Dear Carol, Andrew, Ryan, Lindsay, Emily and Families, It is with great sorrow that I send this message, but it is with great pride that I have had the opportunity to know John, The many opportunities to work with John as an assistant, a co-worker, a colleague, and a very good friend. John has always been such an inspiration in so many ways. John was the most family oriented person that I have ever known. His family was his life. Hold onto those family memories to get you through this difficult time. He has molded his entire family to carry-on his legacy, as it is clear to see that his children cherish family as well. Always know that a helping hand or a shoulder is just a call away. Sincerely, Jim Veitch

~ Jim Veitch

Carol, Andrew, Ryan, Lindsay, Emily and families: We are so saddened to hear of John's passing. He was a wonderful friend, husband, father, brother, Papa (I am sure) and human being. He touched our lives as I'm sure he did to many others. Our hearts ache for you in your loss. We wanted you to know we love you all and wish you peace during this time of sorrow. The heavens have opened their arms to receive another angel. With love, The Thomson's Steve, Joanne, David, Tara, Brent and Drew

~ Steve & Joanne Thomson

My sincerest condolences to the entire Damen clan and their loved ones. Having grown up around the corner from the Damens, I have fond memories of seeing John puttering around outside while a seemingly endless stream of Molnar boys dragged bikes, skateboards (or whatever wheeled devices we could manufacture) up the hill and scream through their driveway. John always smiled and waved (and likely shook his head in retrospect). We always knew John and Carol were people we could trust and would be there any time we needed them. I know I speak for my entire family when I say thanks for the great memories, and I know you are all well looked after in the hearts of all of us.

~ Chris Molnar

We are so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. We pray that the many wonderful memories that you have all shared over the years will bring some comfort.

~ Tara and Bob Vrbanac

Carol and family, our sincerest condolences. I taught at Fanshawe with John for a number of years before and after he retired. He was a well respected educator who cared about the students he taught. He will be deeply missed.

~ Fred and Mary Ann Varkaris

Carol and family and Gerda and family my deepest sympathy for your loss. Thinking of you and sending love and prayers that you may find comfort in knowing that your many friends love and care for you.

~ Barb Coulter

Dear Carol and family Damen. We hereby express our deepest sympathy with the loss of your loved John and wish you all strength in these sad days. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

~ Family Damen - Didam (The Netherlands)

Our deepest sympathies on your loss, our prayers are with you, Cheryl & Bill Verellen

~ Cheryl & Bill Verellen

Our condolences to the Damen family. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

~ John and Jenny Corsaut

Dearest Carol and family: I am shocked and saddened by this news. Such a dear person and beautiful couple and family. Words are simply not enough to express my sincerest sympathy. John will be missed. God Bless, Love Shelley xo

~ Shelley Coletti

Carol and family... Bill and I are sorry to hear of John's passing. It has been years sin our paths crossed but in the times they did, we admired and respected you both for your positive attitudes, your kindness, your closeness as a couple and the giving hearts that you shared with others. We are sending prayers for you all to find comfort and healing in the months ahead. Know you are wrapped in the prayers of others.

~ Gail Malcolm

Carol and family - Our deepest sympathies to all of you. John was such a kind person. Loved his sense of humour. He will truly be missed by all of us in Dorchester. May the strength of your family and friends help during this most difficult time.

~ Nancie Irving & Darrell Kington

Ken and I send you our deepest condolences on your very sad loss. Carol and Gerda, you and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers.

~ Rita Ivie

My sincere sympathies to Carol and family. I worked at Fanshawe while John did. We enjoyed many hallway chats, talking about work, family and people we both knew from going to the same high school. John was a terrific man and he will be missed by many.

~ Gord Worrall

Our sincerest condolences and deepest sympathies to the Damen family at this time. You will be in our thoughts, and we send you all our love and friendship from the prairies.

~ Aaron & Amy Taylor

Dear Carol, Our sincere condolences go out to you and your wonderful family. We see a little but of John in each of them, especially Ryan. John was such a proud and giving father, ready to jump in the car without notice to help his kids. It didn't matter if the trip was minutes or hours. He truly set the standards for being a father. Thank you for granting me the honor of carrying my best friend to his final resting place. We miss him so very much.

~ Jim and Gerda Hunter

Dear Carol and family, our sincerest condolences for your loss. You will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

~ Electrical Apprenticeship at Fanshawe College

Dear Carol and family, It's very hard to put into words what we want to say, because there were so many great things to say about John. ! He was one of the finest men we've known, and a good friend. It was always an epic journey when Tom would go up to the cottage with John, to get the water in and begin the summer season. His commitment to family was amazing, and he would do anything for you and his children. His stories kept us on the edge of our seats, and his laugh was infectious! We are praying for you Carol, and all of your family. We hope that at some time in the future, you will smile again with happy memories. Much love to all of you.

~ Debbie and Tom Boaz

So very sorry to hear this Sad news Emily you and all of Your family are in our thoughts and prayers

~ Dennis & Shirley Dickson

Carol, so sorry to hear of John's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you navigate through this time. We know you have a strong family who will be there for each other. Much love.

~ Myrna & Jack Hammond

Dear Carol and all of John's lovely family. We will remember John as the lovely bright soul that he is. Always evident was the love and respect he had for Carol and family. I remember him just beaming once at Unity as Carol walked by he leaned in and said to Chuck and I, "That's my wife" When we think of John we will always remember his bright smile and his beautiful presence. May knowing his love is with you always bring you some solace at this time.

~ Suzanne and Chuck Semple

Carol and family...our sincerest condolences...Johns smile and humor will be missed...you are in our prayers and thoughts are during this difficult time.

~ Carpenter Apprenticeship at Fanshawe College

John I will miss all your interesting discussions over a brew at Tim Hortons . We go back many years and it's been a real pleasure and honor to have you as a friend . Looking forward to seeing you the other side . You have a great family and they have suffered a great loss. My heart goes out to you Carol and family. Your friend always . Chris

~ Chris Rijnen

Dear Carol, Emily and Family. So very shocked and saddened for your tremendous loss. My heart is very heavy for you. Know that you are surrounded by friends and family with love and care. John will be greatly missed. Lone

~ Lone Battle

Dear Carol, Andrew ,Ryan, Lindsay & Emily, With deepest sympathy to you and your little families on the loss of a dear Husband, Father & Grandpa: May it help to know that life long friends are thinking of you all at this very sad time. I do not think we will ever resolve why a loved one is taken away so quickly. There never is an acceptable time, but thanks to God we have been created with good memories & recall systems and so we can re-live our good times & wonderful thoughts over & over again. May you all be blessed with the wonderful memories of this very special Husband, Father & Grandpa. Sending hugs to all George, Cathy, Brad, Christopher, Matthew & Adam

~ George & Cathy Molnar

With a heavy heart, I send my sincere condolences to your entire family during this time of loss. You are in my prayers. -Tracy

~ Tracy Kelly

My thoughts are with your family, so sorry to hear about your loss.

~ Evelyn Newman

Andrew and Jessica, your family has been and will remain in our prayers as you celebrate the life of your loved one. It was with great sadness that we've received the news of the ordeal and the passing of your father. You all will remain in our thoughts and prayers. Though nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, there is some comfort in knowing that their lives rest in the hands of our benevolent God. Always in God's Love Natanael, Tara and Neyda Ann

~ Natanael, Tara and Neyda Ann from Stratford

Emily, Adam and family, I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Unfortunately I can't be there to pay my respects in person, but know that I'm sending love and strength your way.

~ Cristina Bonasia

Dear Mrs. Damen, Andy, Ryan, Lindsay, Emily and Families, I'm so sorry we couldn't be there to offer our condolences in person today, but please know that we are so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Mr. Damen well, but what I did know of him was that he was humorous and fun loving...and part of one of the most wonderful and loving families. Please know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers. Molly, Matt & Charlotte Thibert - Cox

~ Molly Thibert

Ryan I was deeply saddened when I heard that your Dad had passed from this life to the next. I will always remember his speach at your wedding reception and how obvious it was that he was so proud of you and loved you so much. You and your wonderful family will be in my prayers.

~ David Kettle

Carol and Family, so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you all.

~ Sue Jones

Carol and family, I am sorry I could not attend yesterday, but my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. John was dearly loved and will forever be in your hearts.

~ Pam Monk

Dear Carol, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Tom, Nora & Family

~ Tom & Nora Groshok

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