Obituary of Henry Molema

Peacefully, on a foggy Saturday morning of October 19th, 2024, Henry Molema, age 95, passed away. 

He will join his wife of 69yrs, Elisabeth Molema (2022) and sons Perry Jack (2012) and Robert Henry (2004). Together again as a family. 

Survived by his daughter-law and loving caretaker, Sherry Molema-DeBot, granddaughters Melissa Molema (Alex Defrancesco) and Lindsay Molema (Dan Golas) and great grandchildren Maximus and Mila. He is also survived by his sister in law Ina Dennekamp (Louie Ettling) as well as family remaining in his homeland, the Netherlands. 

Immigrating to Canada in the early 50’s, Henry and Elisabeth settled in Leamington and worked hard to establish a life in Canada. Eventually, they moved to Chatham and purchased the riverside property that would become Colonial Nursery and Garden Centre. They would build their dream home 5km down the road and tend to the tree farm supplying Colonial. 

Outside of his family, Henry had a passion for horses and gardening. He loved to show and breed quarter horses and had a room full of medals and accolades to show for it. He worked the earth, loved the different trees and flowers of North America and especially loved watching the birds.  He loved RV’ing, and travelled to Mexico yearly with his wife to escape the cold, make friends and enjoy the good life. He would rarely say no to a cold beer and a good conversation.  He was tough but fair and had a soft side that grew more apparent in his old age. 

Henry lived a full life; the memory of which will be celebrated and remembered fondly by those close to him. 

In accordance with Henry’s wishes, cremation will take place followed by a private celebration of life. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated.