Obituary of Johannes Adrianus Kerkhoven

KERKHOVEN, Johannes Adrianus "Coach Joe"- Passed away quietly at the Fort Erie Douglas Memorial Hospital, on Wednesday, January 13, 2010, at the age of 76, as a result of a motor vehicle accident while riding his bicycle. Joe represented The Netherlands as an Olympian swimmer at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics; he was the swim coach of the St. Catharines Swim Club for over 25 years; former manager of the Canadian National Swim Team; a marathon runner; and a tri-athlete and life coach. In his spare time he worked for the Seaway as a Geologist until he retired 18 years ago. Joe was one of the first members of the White Oaks Fitness Club and continued to ride his bicycle there until his accident in September. Joe is survived by his wife Phyllis Mary, his daughter Irene Anne, his son Robert (Brenda), and grandchildren Sean and Carling Michelle, his sister Henny Mommers-Kerkhoven, his brother Gijs Kerkhoven (Henny), his brother Robert Kerkhoven (Nelleke) and his sister Nelleke Swannen-Kerkhoven and nieces and nephews in The Netherlands. Joe was predeceased by his parents Gerarda and Johannes and his sister Adry van Rheenen. In accordance with Joe's wishes cremation has taken place. Joe's family will receive friends at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL 585 Carlton St., on Sunday, January 17, 2010, from 6-8 p.m. A celebration of Joe's life will be held in the funeral home's chapel on Monday, January 18, 2010, at 10:00 a.m. Memorial donations may be made to the Rankin Run for Cancer.