Obituary of van Galen – Simon

July 22, 1944 – January 31, 2011 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Simon van Galen at the age of 66 years. Simon was the beloved husband of Wilhelmina van Galen, devoted father of Martijn (Samantha) and Paulien (Mark) and loving Opa to Elie and Joshua. He is survived by 5 siblings. Born in Enkhuizen, the Netherlands, he loved engines, especially diesels. It was a passion that started as a child admiring ships in the harbour. He channelled this enthusiasm into his job as a marine engineer which took him around the world. This journey started with Shell Tankers before immigrating with his family to Canada in 1978. He first found work pursuing his hobby as a heavy duty mechanic. Later he worked for Alberta Distillers allowing him to spend more time at home. However, he loved the sea and was soon again in the engine room with Dome Petroleum. During this time he also obtained his Canadian equivalency degrees and upgraded to become a Chief Marine Engineer. Later he sailed the Atlantic with American Gypsum and then the Great Lakes with Algoma Central Marine. He retired at 63 but not before his love of engines and the sea was captured in a song by David Francey titled “The Chief Engineer” from his 2009 album “Seaway”. Simon embraced his 3 years of retirement. He was extremely generous and would help anyone in need of his skills. He also channelled his energy into restoring a 1946 Dodge truck. He became a member and president of the Alberta Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society (AB ATHS), member of Pioneer Acres and maintained the locomotive engine at Champion Park. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Crowfoot Chapel (82 Crowfoot Circle N.W.), on February 7, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. You may forward condolences to simonlovesdiesel@gmail.com Cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make donations in Simon’s honour can do so to Pioneer Acres (Box 58, Irricana, AB T0M 1B0) with the request that 50% go to AB ATHS.