Hendrik Mollema Obituary
Hank peacefully departed this life on Wednesday, March 4, 2026 at the age of 73, finishing his courageous year-long struggle with glioblastoma.
Beloved husband of 49 years to Elaine. Devoted father to Dee, Elizabeth (Ian) and Kathleen (Guillermo). Proud and loving grandfather to Annabelle and Beatrix. Predeceased by mother, Myntje (Mary) and father Daam (Dan). Cherished brother to Don (Maryvonne), Cor (Liz), Pat (Clarence) and Sylvia (Art) and treasured brother-in-law to Laura (Tim) and Dave (Kim).
Born in Galetta, Ontario, Hank was the first child born in Canada to the Mollema's. The family lived in farming communities east of Ottawa and Blackburn Hamlet. He graduated from Humber College in Landscaping, later pursuing his love of trees becoming a certified Arborist. Hank worked for many years with the National Capital Commission. The last 18 years of his career, Hank was co-owner of TerraPro Corporation where he worked with a great team of owners and staff maintaining many of Ottawa's NCC lands, including Parliament Hill and the Capital's tulip displays.
Hank's later years were greatly enriched by curling at Cityview Curling Club where he made treasured friends during his 15 years of membership. In retirement, Hank enjoyed travel, music, and good times with decades-long friends, especially at his favourite place, the cottage on Palmerston Lake. Hank loved the lake, the trees, the outdoor life and the wonderful neighbours and forever friends made there. Most of all, Hank loved his peaceful times at the lake and all the family times at the cottage.
Thank you to the wonderful Care Staff and management at Amica Westboro Park. Special thanks to Dr. A. Douglas for his excellent care that made Hank's last months with Elaine at Amica as pleasant as possible. Hank bravely met the challenges of the past year with perseverance; enjoying his children and grandchildren, grateful for the many visits from family and friends. He will be sorely missed.
Visitation will be held at the Highland Park Visitation Centre, 2037 McGee Side Road, Carp, ON on Saturday, May 2nd from 1:00PM until the time of the Celebration of Life at 3:00PM. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ottawa Food Bank or World Vision Canada would be greatly appreciated.
