Obituary of Marinus Martinus Bekkers

Marinus Bekkers of Antigonish Landing passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at the age of 82. 

Born on January 5, 1944 in Sint-Oedenrode, Holland, his family immigrated to Canada in 1952 where he grew up on the family farm. There he developed the practical skills and work ethic that would define him for the rest of his life.

Skilled as a certified mechanic, his expertise eventually led to a promotion as a provincial bus inspector, a role he carried out with pride and dedication until his retirement in 2013.  Over the years he kept busy as a gardener, beekeeper, and handyman. He was truly a jack-of-all-trades and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. 

Community was important to Marinus. He dedicated years to 4-H club and Scouts, generously giving his time to helping and encouraging others. Above all, Marinus valued the simple pleasures of life. In his later years, he loved nothing better than to spend an afternoon “up on the hill,” enjoying his flower/vegetable gardens and the peace of the outdoors.

Marinus is survived by his loving wife of almost 60 years, Joanne (Van de Sande); their sons, Robert (Kathleen); James (Caroline); and Michael (RaeAnne); and his son Henry “Danny”; 10 grandchildren: Katherine Breda (Lucas), Clare Denneboom (Lucas), Frederick and Eileen Bekkers; Vee, Ben and Eden Bekkers; Lily Dunn (Jackson), Sophie Bekkers (Cameron), and Janelle Rankin (Luke); and five great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Martien (Janet), as well as many nieces and nephews.

Marinus was predeceased by his parents Gijsbertus and Fredricka (der Kindren), brothers John, Henry, Tony, and his infant sister Maria. 

Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, in Mac Isaac Funeral Home, 61 Pleasant Street. Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11:00 AM in St. Ninian Cathedral, Antigonish, Reverend Danny MacLennnan presiding. Memorial donations may be made to the Antigonish Community Food Bank.