VEENSTRA – Cornelius (Con)

Born Monday March 17, 1930. Passed away Monday December 05, 2022.

Loved Husband of Anne (dec), Father of Anneke, Louise, Virginia, Kristine and Father in law of Mack and Derek.  Adored Pa of Natalie.

Tributes

1. Con was such a wonderful part of my life in Queenscliff Victoria from 1959 onwards.
   Living under the famous White Lighthouse on Shortland's Bluff as next door neighbours, I would hear Con tell exciting stories of the war years in Holland and his adventures at sea. He would take me out in the workboats in Port Phillip Bay, as he surveyed the waters to give accurate detail to the marine charts, as only he could. Con would give great credit to the work of the Seaman's Mission in Melbourne and was so thankful for the services they offered him during his time at sea. "Peter, they gave us the lot!!" My love of the sea was certainly enriched by Con.
   His devoted love that he showed for Anne and his "darling girls" was extraordinary! The family happiness that Con generated through his cheeky personality and his calm discipline was a sight to behold. He set a benchmark with his integrity, respect and honesty that shone like a lighthouse throughout his life. Con's love for others was shown to my family Jack, Sally, Judy and Jane in fine fashion throughout the years. I remember my mother Sally spending a wonderful extended time up north with Con and Anne. The inspirational way he jumped hurdles to achieve goals was brilliant. I thought I knew a fair bit about the life of Con, but in reading his biography, I was absolutely staggered by his multi-layed achievements. If the only thing he ever did was to lead that expedition down to Heard Island and rescue the Walrus plane, that would have been something to write home about, but that was only the tip of the iceberg! Con's life was full of bravery, inspiration, leadership, innovation, skill, humour, love and kindness. God Bless His Generous Soul.

   Peter Lawlor

   December 14, 2022 1:06 pm

2. We have many happy memories of time spent with Con and Anne.

   Brian Kennedy And Family

   December 14, 2022 11:48 am