Obituary of Frank John Van Ham

May 31, 1933 – Calgary, Alberta

February 10, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Frank John Van Ham, of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at the age of 90 years, with family by his side.

Frank was born in Calgary, AB, on May 31, 1933. Frank married Jean Constance Miller in 1954 and celebrated with a grand 50th anniversary event in 2004 at the Carriage House Inn, with family and dear friends. It was a cherished time for all the family.

Frank was predeceased by his wife, Jean Constance, on June 11, 2005; she passed away in Frank’s loving arms. He was also predeceased by his parents Emiel and Catherine Van Ham, on March 15, 1995, and August 14, 2010, respectively, and by his brother Don, on October 7, 2009.

Frank is survived by his brother Jack and sisters-in-law Diane and Wendy (brother Don) residing in Calgary, AB, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In 1968, Frank and Jean purchased a lakeside property on Shuswap Lake, BC, and together they began building a beautiful cottage. This is where our family has cherished countless years of lake activities, including boating, fishing, water fun, and barbeques, with dear friends and neighbours joining in the fun. With music always playing, many a kitchen dance started.

Jean was a keen gardener, and it is with fond memories that we continue to tend to her garden with love. Frank was a skilled carpenter and not only built the cottage, but also many of the furniture pieces, including the kitchen table; it’s a “work of art”. Frank gifted the cottage to his family to ensure a lasting legacy of continued lake life enjoyment.

Frank had a real fondness for Rev. Ray Matheson, and Ray visited Frank often. On November 13, 2023, at the Foothills Hospital, Ray led Frank in an affirmation prayer of receiving Jesus as his Saviour and Lord.

Frank was a blessing to every life and will be dearly missed by his children, Frank (Debi) Van Ham and Jan (Glen) Morin.

Frank was the proud grandfather of Micheal (Jacquelynn) Van Ham, Aimee Albuquerque (Tyler Thomas), Robert (Angelina) Morin, Michael (Brianne) Morin, and Alyssa Morin (Alex Metzger). He was the great-grandfather of Tianna, Lauryn, Micheal, and Rosaleigh Van Ham; Colton and Eva Albuquerque; Peyton and Bronwyn Thomas; and Joey and Brenden Morin. He was a favourite uncle to his many nieces and nephews. Frank’s big smile, dedication to his family, and gentle, giving spirit will always stay in our hearts.

Funeral Services will be held at First Alliance Church, Harvest Room (12345 – 40th Street S.E., Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Luncheon to follow at the church.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Frank’s family here.

In living memory of Frank Van Ham, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Deerfoot South, 12281 – 40th Street SE, Calgary, AB T2Z 4E6, Telephone: 403-203-0525.