In Loving Memory ~
July 7, 1933 – May 11, 2026
Frederick Dirk Middelveen, known to everyone as Fred, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2026, in Port Coquitlam, BC, after a brief illness. He was 92 years old, and his warmth, patience, and quiet generosity touched everyone who knew him.
Fred was born on July 7, 1933, in Vancouver, BC, to Wolter Middelveen and Helen Frederika Cornelia Ouwehand. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry and
Pre-Med at the University of British Columbia before embarking on a distinguished 32-year career in the RCAF as an Aerospace Engineering officer. Among his proudest postings, Fred served as Commanding Officer (CO) of the Satellite Identification and Tracking Unit in St. Margarets, New Brunswick, and CO of the Canadian Forces Photographic Unit in Ottawa, retiring at the rank of Major.
Fred married the love of his life, Winnifred Leona, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and together they raised seven children. After military life, Fred became a farmer, establishing Middelveen Blueberry Farm in Pitt Meadows, BC.
Fred gave generously to his communities wherever the military took his family. He was past secretary of the Ridge Meadows Blueberry Co-op, and past President of the council, among other roles, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Maple Ridge.
He was predeceased by his parents, his brother John Middelveen, and his sister Jean (Middelveen) Bryenton. Fred is lovingly survived by his wife Winnifred Leona; his sons Leonard, John, Tom, Doug, and Paul; and his daughters Marie (Middelveen) Falardeau and L Jean Middelveen. May he now rest in God’s eternal peace.
The Celebration of Life was held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 12145 Laity St, Maple Ridge, BC at 11:00 am on Wednesday, June 10th, with homily by the Rev. Erik Parker. An honour guard was provided by the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 88, Maple Ridge.