It is with deep sorrow and great sadness that the family of John Sr. Van Leeuwen announce his unexpected passing at HSN on June 6th, 2022, at the age of 84. Born in Hoge Rijndijk, Netherlands. It was after WWII when John and his family came to Canada. “You’re not much, if you’re not Dutch” was one of his favorite sayings. He was a true dutchman at heart. John was a proud business owner of Northern Reinforcing for over two decades. With a long history in reinforcing steel, he would often reminisce about all the jobs he did around the city. He had such pride as he told his many stories. When he entered retirement in 2000, he filled his days caring for his gardens in River Valley, enjoy a good burger and beer at Buzzy’s, senior dances at the legion, and socializing with friends over morning coffee at Tim’s. Hunting and fishing were also a big part of his life. The annual deer hunt in Wingham ON was time spent with family and his younger brother Bill. When his loving partner Elizabeth Simms passed in 2009, John never remarried and would share loving memories and how deeply he missed her. John leaves behind his four children Robert Van Leeuwen of Sudbury, Joanne Van Leeuwen (Tony Martino) of Barrie, Paul Van Leeuwen (Mary) of Savage Minnesota and, John Jr Van Leeuwen (Carrie) of Sudbury. Opa will be missed by his six grandchildren Vanessa, Tonino, Kate, Lydia, Paul Jr., and Anderson. John will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by his siblings Nick (predeceased), Bill, Jack, Tia, Nellie, Casey, Joe, Maria, and their families. Funeral arrangements are being handled by Cooperative Funeral Home in Sudbury. At Johns request there will be no visitation. We hope you’ll come out to Celebrate John Sr. with us at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 564 located at 2200 Long Lake Road. Sunday, June 26th from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Buffet lunch will be served at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s honor to the Alzheimer Society of Sudbury-Manitoulin and North Bay district would be appreciated. www.cooperativefuneralhome.ca