In Celebration of

Claire Veenstra

October 8, 1954 - June 8, 2023

On June 8, after a 15-year journey with lymphoma, Claire died peacefully in hospital. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Don Johnston, sister Betty (Al) Martens and brother John (Edith) Veenstra. She was close to sisters-in-law Beth Johnston and Sandra (Jean) Cloutier and adored her nieces and nephews. Aunt Claire treasured the time she spent with them.

Claire was a remarkable person: positive, caring and compassionate. She was adventurous, intelligent, diplomatic – and fun. She lived life intentionally. Claire was keenly interested in gardening and quilting. She has been committed to tackling the climate crisis, firmly believing that one person can make a difference.

It is hard to imagine a world without her.

You are invited to a Visitation at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., Friday, June 16, from 5 to 8 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 pm, on Saturday, June 17 at The First Christian Reformed Church, 67 Taunton Rd., Toronto.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Bruce Trail Conservancy or the Waldenstrom’s Macroglobulinemia Foundation of Canada.

Guestbook

(5 of 8)

Ron Kuipers (Friend and Colleague)

Entered June 12, 2023 from Toronto

I was very saddened to hear this news. I loved working with Claire at the Institute for Christian Studies, and deeply admired both her sense of compassion and her professionalism. She was very supportive of me when I was learning the ropes as a new professor, and as I continued to grow in my leadership responsibilities. I wish Don and the rest of Claire's family strength, comfort, and peace during this time of mourning and remembrance.

Bruce Ainsley (Very good friend)

Entered June 12, 2023 from Grand Island NY

She will be greatly missed

Julia (Neighbor)

Entered June 16, 2023

My deepest condolences… I will miss Claire’s soft smile and talking to her, but I will always remember her kindness. May all your wonderful memories comfort you during this heartbreaking time…

Don and Ruth Van Velzen (cousin)

Entered June 16, 2023 from Burlington

A bright light. Always positive; always giving; reflecting the love of God in all she did.

Janice White (Friend)

Entered June 16, 2023 from Niagara on the Lake

Don my deepest condolences on Claire’s passing. I was very sorry to hear this. She was such a fighter. I remember her telling me about her journey on the Camino Real. I’ll think of her sitting in my garden as I know she had a passion for gardens as well.

Janice White

Photos

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