Albert Abbink
Albert Abbink (a.k.a. Opa / Appie) passed away peacefully on the morning of October 11, 2025. He will be missed by Margaret (nee Van Kooten), his wife of 53 years; his children Amy (Mike and Griffin), Philip (Anna, Fergus and Simone) and Andrew (Karlene, Willem and Hanna); his surviving brothers Gerrit, Tony and Harry; and, his many friends.
Born on July 12, 1935, in Hengelo, Gelderland, the Netherlands, Albert grew up on a farm as the eldest of seven boys. That was, no doubt, the genesis of his particular brand of humour. After growing up in the midst of the second World War he then completed his mandatory military service. Before emigrating to Canada at age 32, he studied poultry science, and carpentry. He spent the rest of his working life as a carpenter, and passed on his knowledge, tools, and work ethic to his children.
Albert brought his sense of adventure to his chosen country. Having grown up on a flat, land-locked farm, he met Margaret while downhill skiing and bought a canoe early in their marriage. Camping became the family summer vacation, usually in Killarney. Sunday afternoons were for long walks in the woods.
Albert read widely and constantly. He tried his hand at classical guitar, and choral music was a lifetime passion, from operettas as a young man to decades as a member of the Guelph Men’s Choir.
Most of all, we will remember Albert for his kindness and generosity. He loved his wife, children, and grandchildren more than anything else. He would chat with anyone because he always wanted to hear a story and make a new friend. He loved to laugh with other people.
A celebration will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 2 – 4 pm at Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph.
Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest donations to Lisaard House or the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
A tree will be planted in memory of Albert Abbink in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.