(submitted by Jill Van Loon)
Chris and Sien (–1990) Van Loon arrived in Canada from the Netherlands in May, 1950 as newlyweds. After living in Grand Bend for the first year they purchased a farm at Lot 26, Con. 5 SER (8597 Confederation Line) in 1951. Sugar beets, white beans and sweet corn were grown on this farm.
In 1953 a second farm, located at Lot 27, Con. 5 SER (8727 Confederation Line) was purchased. This farm was dairy; a chicken barn was added. In 1967 the dairy herd was sold and pigs were introduced to the farm setup.
Living across from the school enabled Chris to go and start the fire in the school building each morning, so it would be warm when the children arrived for the day.
Despite the language barrier, Chris was the Chairman of the committee to open a Catholic school in Watford. St. Peter Canisius Catholic School became a reality after much hard work.
Chris was part of the local board of St. Willibrord Credit Union, now known as Libro. The new immigrants to this country had no collateral and thus could not borrow money from the local banks. The credit union was started to help them ensure loans and be able to purchase basic items such as appliances or a car. At first, people came to the house to make deposits and request loans. Loans were decided by a committee.
The Van Loon family consisted of six girls and two boys: Marian (1951–), Peter (1952–), Corie (1954–), Bernie (1956–), Laura (1957–), Janet (1959–), Debbie (1960–), and John (1964–). Sien sewed a lot of their clothing.
Four of the children still live in Warwick Twp. Peter married Janie VerBerk and lives on the first farm purchased by Chris; John married Jill Runnalls and lives on the second farm purchased by Chris; Marian married Brian Rankin; and Laura married Phil Venema. Chris and Sien retired to Watford in 1990.
Chapter 24 of 25 - Van Loon Family
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