Frances H. de Burger

de Burger, Frances Henrietta (née Van Dooren) – With heavy hearts but cherished memories, we announce the passing of Frances Henrietta de Burger, a beloved soul whose kindness, warmth, and unwavering love touched the lives of everyone who knew her.  Fran passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, at Wellington Terrace long-term care home in Fergus, Ontario on Friday, August 30, 2024.

She is survived by her sons David (Michelle), Paul (Angela), and her grandson Ryan.  Fran also considered the extended de Burger family to be her brothers and sisters and held a deep love for them and their families. As such, she is also survived by in-laws Erna (Alex), Frank (Karen), Liesje, and Lillian (Daryl). 

Fran was predeceased by her lifelong love, husband Ron de Burger, as well as her parents Frans Van Dooren and Anna Verschueren-Van Dooren, and her sister Augusta Chénier (née Van Dooren). 

Fran was born November 3rd, 1942. She grew up in Falconbridge, Ontario where she enjoyed swimming and spending summers at Camp Falcona. She was an accomplished physiotherapist and an entrepreneur at heart. She loved raising her family in Newmarket, ON, Victoria, BC and Halifax, NS. Fran later moved to Ottawa and then Oakville, ON. 

She was an exceptionally supportive mother, never missing a sporting event, school concert, or family celebration. Her loyalty and dedication to her family was legendary. Fran’s love of dogs was also known to all and through the years Sport, Brandy, Stevie and Cocoa held a special place in her heart.

Fran was an avid music lover. A talented piano player, she was often found entertaining the household with rousing renditions of Frank Mills songs and classical masterpieces. In later years she came to love André Rieu and especially enjoyed watching his concerts on the big screen.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.

The family wishes to thank all of the doctors, nurses, and caregivers who provided expert care and support to Fran. 

Donations to the Alzheimer Society in her memory would be appreciated.

Fran adored trees, water and being in nature. In tribute, a tree will be planted in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest located at the University of Guelph Arboretum.