26-Feb-1941 - 24-Dec-2024
Andy passed away Tuesday December 24th, 2024 with family by his side (Donna and Jeff).
“I can’t change the direction of the Wind but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination”
Goodbye sweet Andy thank you for 30 years of memories, love and laughter.
Loved husband of Donna, stepfather to Kelly (Ryan), Kim (Trevor) and Jeff (Amy). Pake (Frisian for Grandpa) to his Sweet Anna and Grace (aka Donald Duck) Thomas and Andrew. Brother to sister Pia (Bob). Uncle to Rob (Tony), Scott (Sarah) and Jeffrey. Great Uncle to Zoey and Hayden. As the son of an immigrant father (who immigrated with his wife Grace, Andy and Pia in 1954 from the Netherlands) Bauke died at a young age of 44.
Andy, at just 17 left school to work full time (Fabulous Formals where he later became plant manager) to take care of his mother and young sister. Those early 1950’s of the past century were hard times for his family. Andy adjusted his sails many times in his life but he never lost site of the direction he wanted to go. Andy’s biggest adjustment was his rapidly changing life after being diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia, he struggled to hold on to who he was a difficult challenge that he didn’t have a choice in but to navigate with dignity.
Andy you were a friend to many through your many years of sailing, curling and working at Bayport Marina, and Wye Heritage (Doral) in Midland. You will always be remembered and held close by those who loved you, your warm beautiful smile and that larger than life personality… especially when you sailed with John and Stuart (the 3 Musketeers). I can’t even begin to name the friends from the past and present afraid to miss even just one.
Friends are invited to a visitation on Friday January 3rd, 2025 at Nicholls Funeral Home (330 Midland Ave. Midland, ON. L4R 3K7) from 11 a.m. until time of chapel service starting at 12 o’clock. A time of refreshments and fellowship will be held after the service.
Andy a quote you loved:
“I’m not afraid of Storms for I’m learning to SAIL MY SHIP to its FINAL SAFE HARBOUR”
Sail on Andy with much Love from all WHO LOVE YOU
