Jerry Van Olst

Passed away peacefully at the Queensway Carleton Hospital in Ottawa on Friday, January 2, 2026 in the arms of his wife, Heather after a brief battle with cancer, Jerry Van Olst of Barrhaven, age 68.  Loving husband of Heather Van Olst (nee Wood) for 8 years – having spent a total of 15 wonderful years together.

Devoted father of Ryan Van Olst (Jill) of Manotick, Tyler Van Olst of Kingston, David Van Olst (Erin) of Aylmer, QC and loving step-father to Jordan Tryon (Jen) of Metcalfe and Amy Boire (Calvin) of Cold Lake, AB.  Opa was utterly enamored with his 7 grandchildren and will be deeply missed by Max, Rey, Evelyn, Owen, Logan, Luke & Zoë.

Jerry was a cherished step-son to John Kleingeld of Oshawa and brother-in-law to Fran Van Olst of Orillia.  Jerry was predeceased by his father Cornelis and mother Dina, his brother Andy and his first wife, Gayle.  He leaves behind many cherished aunts, uncles and cousins in the Netherlands as well as Heather's immediate and extended family.

Jerry's devotion to his family was evident in everything he did.  He made being there for his loved ones his top priority and no one ever had to wonder if they could count on his support.

He was truly passionate about his company, Quest Awards and he treated his employees like family- never missing a chance to praise them and offer support.  The many colleagues he worked with over his several decades in the corporate training world will indeed miss his acumen as a sales person and his sense of humour as a friend.  Jerry turned everyone he met into an instant friend.

This loss is deeply impactful to his wife, her family, his family (both in Canada and the Netherlands) and for the myriad acquaintances, friends, co-workers who shared in his personal and work life.

You'll remain forever in our hearts. You've earned a special place in Heaven.

Funeral Arrangements

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 4:00-7:00 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion, 3284 Sunstrum Street, Osgoode, ON, K0A 2W0. Memories will be shared at 5:00 PM.  Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be gratefully acknowledged by the family.  If you are making your donation online or by cheque directly to the charity, please include the following note with your gift "please notify the family".  Online condolences may be made at marsdenmclaughlin.com.