Andrew Flores Groeneveld passed away in Calgary on June 8, 2009. Andrew is survived by his wife and soul mate Virginia; his children Susan (Glen) Williams of Arrowwood, Ab.; Dennis (Sharen) of Alder Flats, Ab.; Bruce (Cindy) of Rosebud, Ab.: Randy (Treena) of Calgary Ab.; Allan (Asa) of Winfield, Ab.; his sister Jean Roth of Consort, Ab.; brothers Paul of Strathmore, Ab.; Flores (Margaret), George (Judy) both of Blackie, Ab. Grandchildren: Melody (Kale), Kyla (Jerad) Smith, Devon (Christie), Wes Williams, Stacey (Jordon), Eliza, Codey (Terra), Krista, Justin, Tyson, Zachery, Riley and Nicole. Great grandchildren: Hannah Smith, Owen Prystupa, Garnett Smith and Paige Ryan and numerous nieces and nephews. Andrew was predeceased by his parents, Tony and Jane and his sister Betty Barnard. Andrew was born on November 10, 1927 in Pernis, Holland. At the age of 2 he moved to Canada with his Mom, Dad, sister Betty and brother Paul. They resided along the Bow River in the Blackie area. Andrew married Virginia Finley on July 4, 1952. They moved to Rosebud in 1958. There they farmed and raised Simmental cattle till they retired in 1999 to Strathmore, Alberta. Andrew was heavily involved in the different communities that he lived in. He was involved with 4-H for many years and inducted into the 4-H Hall of Fame. Andrew was a Chartered Lions Member in Rosebud and an active member of the United Church. A celebration of Andrew’s life was held on June 17, 2009 in Strathmore, Alberta. A special thank you to Andrew’s second family; the Tom Baker Cancer Centre staff, for 26 years of care and friendship. Also a special thank you to Dr. Mark Vacy-Lyle, Dr. D. Piesas and their staffs. Virginia and her family would also like to express their heartfelt thankyou to all of you; our dearest friends, for all your thoughts, prayers, phone calls, cards, flowers and delicious foods. Andrew will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.
