DAMIAN DE KROM (Nov 10, 1928 – Mar 7, 2025)

Born November 10, 1928, in Tilburg Holland, the second youngest of 6 children he was expected to enter the priesthood. Post World War II events disrupted this prospect and instead he emigrated to Montreal in 1950 the beneficiary of a Jesuit scholarship in engineering at Loyola. Although he excelled academically, he was not able to fund his last year and left without securing a degree. Using the technical knowledge gained in school he proved himself a talented sought after employee in successive engineering firms before establishing his own company that supplied state of the art surveying equipment. His instruments were of such high calibre they were integral to some of the era’s major engineering projects such as the Manicouagan Dam and the James Bay hydro-electric projects. As his company was a “one-man” operation, his large corporate competitors were ultimately able to outflank him which led to his successful entry into real estate. In addition to his triumphs in this field he was more importantly the benefactor to numerous families who never would have or could have secured a mortgage and the pleasure of owning their own home. 

His marriage to Dymphna van der Pluym in June 1956 brought forth 5 children and endured for 65 happy years until her passing in October 2021. Damian’s strong love of education was impressed upon his children who acquired graduate and post graduate degrees in various fields and disciplines. Although very proud of their academic and professional achievements, he was greatly gratified by the depth, maturity and compassion of their characters.                                                      

He thoroughly appreciated hand-rolled cigars, vintage cognac, gourmet meals, witty banter and repartee, bespoke tailored suits and luxury cars but was never the sum of his pleasures. Instead, his foundation and identity throughout his life was his deep abiding Catholic faith which he lived effectively as a quiet proselytizing adherent for those seeking the truth. Numerous people were converted by his calm demeanor and then confirmed by his eloquent answers to profound questions. 

At his passing it can be stated unequivocally that his life based on Thomistic principles was one truly well lived and a notably positive uplifting influence on the world around him. Requiescat in pace faithful servant!

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Desforges Funeral Home, 188 rue Principale, Grenville, QC - (819) 242-2113.  Funeral service will be held at St. Jude’s Parish Hawkesbury, on Wednesday March 19^th, 2025, at 12 p.m.