In Celebration of

Hubert Van Melle

September 24, 1929 - May 19, 2017

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Hubert (Hugh) Van Melle on Friday May 19, 2017 at Holland Christian Homes, Brampton at the age of 87. Hugh was predeceased by his beloved wife Iris, and his brothers Jan, Robert and Frans. Hugh will be greatly missed by his daughters Francine (Harold Hopf), Elaine (Lewis Tomalty), Anita (Will Englehart), Janet (Albert Conforzi); grandchildren Laura (Adam), Alexander, Sean, Diane, Phillip (Sabrina), Amber, Brendan (Valerie), Katrina and great-grandson Adrian. Hugh is survived by his brother Cor Marius van Melle (Marijke). Born in Bandung Indonesia, he moved to Hilversum, The Netherlands at the age of 7. Hugh and Iris came to Canada in 1954 where they raised their family, mostly in Etobicoke. As a Professional Engineer with an MBA, Hugh was a successful inventor and entrepreneur. In 1975 he and a partner started Amhil Enterprises (named for Amsterdam and Hilversum). Amhil produced plastic lids for hot and cold drink cups and food containers. When his partner passed away in 1989 Hugh took over his 50% share. When he retired at age 70, after selling the company, Amhil employed more than 350 employees and was operating seven days a week.
A talented jazz pianist, Hugh was in his element entertaining family and friends. He was a member of several bands. He also enjoyed cottage life in Muskoka; sailing; playing bridge; and his favourite dog Trixie.

A Celebration of Life will take place at Turner and Porter “Peel” Chapel, 2180 Hurontario St., Mississauga (Hwy 10 N. of QEW) on Saturday, May 27, 2017 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. with remarks at 2:30.

If desired, remembrances may be made to the Toronto SPCA or a charity of your choice.

Guestbook

(5 of 10)

Lisa Proietti Smith (Family friends)

Entered May 24, 2017 from Etobicoke

To the Van Melle girls and their families and friends, I am so sorry for your loss. It is never easy but please remember all the good memories and what a talented man your father was. We just loved when he came to our house for birthdays and celebrations and would bring his piano to entertain us. I thought he was a famous musician and you know what?? He was!! Prayers for strength for you all.

Boyd McAdam (Friend)

Entered May 24, 2017 from Toronto, Ontario

Francine: Thinking of you, your sisters and your families in this time of sorrow and celebration. May your family, friends, faith and fond memories give you comfort in this difficult time.

Kenneth Boyd (Friend and co-worker of daughter Anita)

Entered May 24, 2017 from Nashville

I too know the loss of a parent and my heart goes out to you. I know this is supposed to be a joyful occasion but it's sometimes hard to let the joy in when you are feeling the pain of the loss. Try to think of all the good things and the good times. I know nothing can be said to make you feel better but know that someone else knows your feeling of loss.

john and simonne van der ster (friend)

Entered May 25, 2017 from 1Meadowbrook Lane, Thornbury, Ont N0H 2P0

We have know huib for many years. He and I were both members of the Florin Investment club for many years. Huib always had reasons for speaking up at the Florin Investors meetings and presented his case usually with a dutch sense of humor. He and I had many discussions about business in general and sometimes gave me some business tips. He never let on the challenges that faced him and his partner to others. We saw only the results for their efforts. He will be dearly missed by all his family and his friends.
Our condolences to the family. May God give them strengths to overcome their loss of his passing.

Anny en Gerard Janssen (Friends)

Entered May 25, 2017 from Toronto

Rust in Vrede Huib.
Anny en Gerard