Anthony Francis Van de Ruit 

October 4, 1988-September 23, 2022 

A son, brother, lover of books, and giver of memorable hugs 

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the unexpected loss of Anthony Francis Van de Ruit. It was during his travels across Canada with his parents that Anthony had sustained a devastating tragedy and had peacefully passed away on September 23, 2022 at The Moncton Hospital, New Brunswick. Anthony leaves behind his parents, Hans and Zeny Van de Ruit; younger sister, Natasha Simaeys; brother-in-law Michael Simaeys and his family; numerous relatives and loved ones from Holland, Philippines, Italy, United States of America, and Canada; and finally, Anthony’s many friends and companions in the community of Alberta. Anthony was predeceased by his grandparents, Johannes and Hendrika Van de Ruit, and uncle, Mart Van de Ruit, from Holland; and his grandfather from the Philippines, Dominador Ines.  

Anthony was born and raised in Red Deer, Alberta where he attended the local schools and graduated at École Secondaire Notre Dame High school in 2007; he practiced religion at the Sacred Heart and St. Mary’s Catholic churches; volunteered at the church and SPCA; and worked various part time jobs within the community including delivering the newspaper and flyers. In his free time Anthony was involved in a number of activities that included: bowling with the Special Olympics of Red Deer, spending time with friends at the Parkland Class Relax Crew, listening to the radio stations, reading and writing in his impressive collection of assorted books (his favourite being encyclopedias!), watching films on repeat, and going out with his family and friends to enjoy local entertainment. It was easy to spot Anthony in the community, he loved to wear a hat with his favourite vest, he’d diligently carry a book or two in his arms, and he would eagerly approach you so that you may share with him your name and a strong hug.  

We are deeply appreciative to all those who have aided and cared for Anthony throughout his thirty-three years. Our sincerest gratitude and thanks go out to the heroes and the dedicated staff of the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Prince Edward Island, and The Moncton Hospital, New Brunswick; all of whom had comforted and consoled Anthony in his final days.  

The viewing will be held at Eventide Funeral home on October 6th 2022, 2:00PM-4:00PM. A mass service to honour Anthony and to bid him a heartfelt farewell for his final journey to Heaven will be held October 7th 2022, 11:00AM at Sacred Heart Parish in Red Deer, Alberta followed by a interment at the Mount Calvary Catholic Cemetery.  

If desired, donations in memory of Anthony may be made directly to the companies that provided support and activities in his life; Parkland Class Relax Crew and Aspire Special Needs. 

 

 

• Date : 2022-09-23
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home