John Bakker Sr.

The funeral service for John Bakker Sr. took place on Sat., Feb. 11, at Trinity Christian Reformed Church in St. Catharines. He passed away on Feb. 7. Bakker was a second-generation owner of J.C. Bakker and Sons Nursery. His love of the nursery industry was passed on to his two sons, John III and Ken, who work at the nursery today. He was dear father of Marg and Greg Kuiper, Linda and John Suk, John and Renee Bakker, Ken and Lisa Bakker and Robert Bakker. He will be sadly missed by 19 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.
 

Donald H. Cavan

On Jan. 31, Donald Hewson Cavan (1921-2012) passed away peacefully with his family at his side. He was known to many in the trade as a pioneer of the independent garden centre industry. He owned Cavan’s Garden Centres in Mississauga and Erin, along with his life partner of 65 years, best friend and wife Doreen. They, along with their children Larry (Glenda), Jamie (Willy), Ellen (Bob), Tom (Anne), Gina and Barb fashioned a thriving full-service business, retailing bedding plants, perennials, nursery stock, horticultural products, patio furniture, pool supplies, concrete products and tools.

Don and Doreen Cavan were one of the first independent garden centre operators to introduce a complete Christmas trade with poinsettia, tropical plants, Christmas trees and ornaments. They held evening design classes that were attended by hundreds of guests, twice a week for over 40 years.

Don was a very proud, charitable businessman, veteran of WWII, avid golfer and had a great appreciation for sports teams and team work. He will be dearly missed by his family.

A celebration of his life will take place in spring. A date has yet to be determined.