Obituary of Danny Bate Boerop

Dr. Danny Bate Boerop passed away peacefully following a sudden short illness on December 26, 2023. He leaves with fond memories his wife, Wendy Dawe, daughter, Lorraine Bate Boerop, sons, Robin and Jeffrey Bate Boerop, step-sons, Christopher and Mark (Michelle) Castonguay, and step-granddaughter, Ava Castonguay.

Dan was born in Utrecht in 1931 and led an interesting life. His childhood was interrupted by World War II. Unbeknownst to his siblings or parents, he participated in the Dutch resistance at age 12. Despite several close calls with the invading German military, he managed to survive.

Dan immigrated to Canada in 1951 and initially settled in the Toronto/Oakville area. Following a successful entrepreneurial career in the construction business, he decided to follow his heart by enrolling at York University. He completed his Ph.D. and began a successful career as a clinical psychologist. He operated his own private practice, and was also employed at Fredericton's Mental Health Clinic. There, he met Dr. Nimish Purohit, psychiatrist, and his wife Kokila, everlasting friends.

Danny loved his German Shepherd Dogs. Following his retirement, Dan wrote short stories about the pets and the people in his life. He was happy. Danny and Wendy made several wonderful trips to the Netherlands to visit Dan’s brother, Jan Jacobus (“Gijs”), his sister, Mary (“Zus”), and a group of old school friends with whom he had remained in touch since primary school, the "Fab Five".

Not many years ago, Dan was reunited with dear cousins, Pieter Oranje and Jozien Schrale Oranje. As it was then difficult for him to travel abroad, the Dutch family members came to Canada for a visit every summer, which he enjoyed immensely.

He was happy and content in Fredericton in his cozy home until a sudden illness struck and recovery was not possible. During his illness, Dan was well supported. Wendy and Danny thank their friends and wonderful neighbors for their valuable help. Wendy expresses her heartfelt thanks to Dr. Sean Milley, and the staff of the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital palliative care unit, as well as to Dr. Mike Armitage (E.R.) whose rapid diagnosis eased the rest of Dan’s care.

Some of the very special people in Danny’s life who brought him joy include Rita (Don) Fowler; big-hearted Jody Phillips, who always made him smile; Gerry Poirier, who was always there when we needed him; Helene & Arthur Thomas, the most wonderful people; and Ron & Ann Gould, who shared Wendy and Danny’s holiday celebrations.

Wendy, his loving wife, cared for Dan for 36 years and will miss him. “Who will I cook for now?” she laments.

Gone but never forgotten.

In keeping with Dan’s wishes, there will be no formal services. For those who wish, memorial donations may be made to your local SPCA or a charity of your choice.