April 20, 1951 – March 4, 2026
Aarnout (Arnie) Melissen, 74, passed away peacefully at home on March 4, 2026, thirteen months after being diagnosed with a glioblastoma brain tumour. Arnie will be remembered by his wife Janet, his children Jeanette (Dan) Wardrope, Shannon (Phil) Williams, Johan (Adrienne) Melissen, Jacqueline (Anton) Donkersloot, 15 grandchildren — Adriana (James), Charis (Kade), Ellie, Ben (Sarah), Danica, Josh, Reid, Mariama, Miles, William, Mae, Ginny, Erin, Rosalie, and Nora — as well as many extended family members. He also is remembered by many honorary children and grandchildren, who he loved dearly and was so proud of.
Arnie will be remembered for his business endeavours, specifically as the President and CEO of North West Rubber Mats. He was also an active member of many community and charity organizations, most notably Maple Ridge Christian Reformed Church, which was his congregation for over 50 years. Arnie had a lifelong faith in Christ and believed in expressing his faith through action, doing his best to follow Jesus’ clear instructions to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of Arnie’s favourite charities:
M2/W2 (www.m2w2.com)
Please also consider honouring Arnie’s legacy by befriending someone new and learning from them. May Arnie’s legacy of integrity, generosity, and optimism continue to inspire all who knew him.