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Gus has left this world and rejoined his life dance partner, Myrl (February 2021). Born on December 14, 1933, in Boekel, Netherlands to parents Johannus (deceased 1982) & Huberta (nee Van den Boogaard, deceased 1957) Leenders. The complete family of 11 sailed to Canada in 1950. Gus met Myrl (nee MacKenzie) in 1967 at a Valentine's Day dance in Sarnia, married on October 21, 1967, and had been dancing together until her passing. Had over 54 years together spending as many weekends as possible dancing in Michigan and Ontario at whatever venues where polka/waltz music was playing. They had travelled many times to the East Coast to visit Myrl's sisters and their families as well as the growing Leenders families. Been employed by Belton from April 1953 and retired in 1991. Dear brother of the late Marie VanWerde (John); Liza Vermeulen (the late John); late Joe (Freda); late Andy (the late Ann); late Albert (Kathleen); Eugene (Willie); Herman; Richard (the late Gladys). He also leaves behind his extended East Coast family; sisters-in-laws Myrta and Karen (the late Lloyd) as well as many nieces/nephews and great nieces/nephews.
Visitation to be held at SFH – McKenzie & Blundy Chapel, 431 Christina St. N., on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 9:30 to 10:30. Funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Benedict's Church, 1011 Oak Ave, Sarnia, on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. (A livestream will be available at the start of the service – https://youtube.com/live/eeCnmO7HANI). Interment will follow at Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery.
Sympathy may be expressed through donations to Children's Rotary or Bluewater Health or a charity of your choosing would be appreciated (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
