John Middegaal

John Middegaal of Seaforth, formerly of Blyth, passed away peacefully at Jessica’s House, Exeter, surrounded by his family on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026 at the age of 84. 

 

The cherished husband of Anne (Vanden Hengel) Middegaal for over 59 years, John was the loving father of Susan and Andy VanDorp, Diane and Ron Coolman, Judy and Craig Rock, and Dave and Amy Middegaal, the proud grandpa of Michael (Briallen), Ashley, Jenny (Mike); Deric, Kendra and Devon; Travis, Karly, Amber (Wyatt); Ryan, and Ali and Opa of James, and Zoey. 

 

He was the dear brother of Chris Dieser, Helen VanMoorsel, Joanne and Cal Garrow, and Maryanne Middegaal and brother-in-law of Dora VanHerk, Catherine Hak, Fr. John Vanden Hengel, Bill and Ev Vanden Hengel, Antonette and John Lane, Gerry and Elaine Vanden Hengel, Tony and Mary Vanden Hengel, Jack and Mary Anne Vanden Hengel, and Rose and Piet Loomans. 
John will be fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews. 

 

He was predeceased by his parents, Bert and Anna (Smits) Middegaal, brother and sister-in-law Tony and Joan Middegaal, brother Hank Middegaal, brothers-in-law Harry VanMoorsel, John VanHerk, and Harry Hak, and sister-in-law and brother-in-law Mary and Ross Daly. 

 

John was a man who believed in the value of an honest day’s work and the quiet satisfaction that came from building something with his hands. He began his working life farming in the Blyth area before opening Middegaal Pools in 1979, a venture that reflected his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. In his retirement years, John found great joy in woodworking and tinkering, carefully creating pieces for his family - lasting reminders of his skill, patience and love.

 

John treasured time spent with his family above all else. He shared countless road trips and afternoon drives with his wife, Anne, especially in search of the fall colours he so loved. Many happy moments were spent at his trailer in Bayfield - a place he built himself and one that became a gathering place for family memories. An enthusiast when it came to all of his “toys,” John enjoyed snowmobiling, his golf cart, and his classic convertible, always embracing life with curiosity and energy. His legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, to whom he passed along the values of hard work, craftsmanship and family.

 

Visitation will be held at Haskett Funeral Home, Seaforth, on Sunday, Feb. 8 from 1-4 p.m. John’s Funeral Mass will be held at St. James Catholic Church, Seaforth on Monday, Feb. 9 at 11 a.m. with visitation one hour prior. Spring interment will be held at St. James Catholic Cemetery, Seaforth.

 

Donations to Jessica’s House, Exeter would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be forwarded online through www.haskettfh.com.