Obituary of Johannes (John) Maria Buis

BUIS, Rev. Johannes (John) Maria Of St. Catharines passed away Sunday, November 10, 2013 with his family at his side. He was born in Zwaag, Netherland on October 2, 1927 to the late Pieter Buis and Divera Rood. His dream as a young man was to be a priest or ship's captain. His dream came true when he was ordained a priest on June 9, 1955 in Auch, France. Father John's first parish was in Panasac, France. After a few visits to Canada, he immigrated in 1969 to be near family members. Upon his arrival he served as Chaplain of the hospitals in St. Catharines, then moved on through the years as an assistant priest in St. Joseph's in Grimsby, became parish priest at St. Martin of Tours, Smithville, where he was instrumental in the building of a new parish church, Pastor at St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Catharines and finally at St. Jean de Brebeuf in Port Colborne. In retirement he moved to La Residence in St. Catharines where he became the resident priest. Fr. Buis was Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus 4th degree and St. Catharines Council #1394 for many years. He also celebrated Masses regularly at the Heidehof Home. All the while he fulfilled his passion for travel. Father John was the eldest of ten children: Pieter (Margaret), Trudy (Ted Ruiter) Vera (John de Laat) and Adrian (Connie). He is predeceased by brothers: Cees (Riek), Gerry (Elizabeth), and Joe (Mary Lou) and his sisters, Corrie (Jan Bakker) and Gertrude (infant). He was a devoted Uncle to all his nieces and nephews. Family was everything to him. Father John was a giving man and as such a dedicated priest. Visitation will be held at the George Darte Funeral Chapel, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines, on Wednesday, November 13, 2013 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. and Thursday, November 14, 2013 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Vigil prayers will be held in the funeral home Thursday evening at 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Martin of Tours, 166 West Street, Smithville, on Friday, November 15, 2013 at 11 a.m. with one hour of visitation held in the church, prior to Mass. Rite of Committal to follow Mass at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either: the Clergy Aid Society, the Catholic Church Extension or a charity of one's choice.