Obituary for Tenus (Martenus) Van Tol
By Snodgrass Funeral Homes
Tenus was born on the family farm at Pearce, Alta., on Aug. 31, 1923; the fifth child born to Hendrika (Veldhuis) and Hein Van Tol. His parents immigrated to Canada from the Netherlands and met at Monarch, Alta., where they were married. The Van Tols moved to the Fort Macleod area from Pearce, where Hein continued to farm. The Gladstone Valley became home in the early ’50s.
Tenus went to work logging in northern Ontario when he was 16. As a young man, he worked as a ranch hand for many in the Pincher-Lundbreck area upon his return. He took up the carpentry trade that brought him to Saskatoon, where he met a career nurse, Norma Jean Crawford, and was smitten. They were married there on Sept. 4, 1954.
When construction went flat, Tenus and Norma decided to move back to southern Alberta and settled in Fort Macleod in 1958. Tenus started Van Tol Construction and Norma nursed at the hospital, retiring as matron.
They raised two children and were involved in the community through their church and various service organizations. Sadly, Norma passed from cancer in October 1987 at the age of 60.
Ranching was work Tenus loved and he ran cattle on the home place up the valley; a strong work ethic and a love of nature kept him tied to the land. Tenus took pleasure in combing the backcountry on horseback, whether looking for game, unique landscapes or photo opportunities. He loved to garden and always had an abundance of flowers.
Tenus was predeceased by his parents and all his siblings: sisters Ann, Gert, Ricky, Jenny; brothers Joe, Ari, Dick, Hank, Ben.
His children, Carla McNally (Calgary) and Greg Van Tol (Pincher Creek), granddaughter Chelsea Ling and great-grandsons Jude and Jett Ling (Charlottetown) celebrate his life with fond memories and gratitude for his wisdom, kindness and love. He will be remembered fondly by his care providers and extended family members.
Tenus will be interred with Norma in Union Cemetery, Fort Macleod, at a later date. No funeral service at the request of the deceased.
Memorial contributions to the charity of your choice at your discretion.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Snodgrass Funeral Homes
403-627-4864 www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com
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