Grace Van Belle, founder of Van Belle Nursery, passes away

Grace Van Belle, one of the founders of Van Belle Nursery, passed away Feb. 4, 2025.

"Grace was inseparable from the heart, soul and values of Van Belle Nursery, helping build the foundation of our success through her lifelong dedication to the nursery, our treasured team members and partners," the nursery wrote on LinkedIn. "To those who worked with her over the years, you knew Grace as an owner who watched the finances closely and worked tirelessly for the people around her—including preparing and serving lunch for every monthly staff meeting, and a hearty supper for the team on busy spring days. Her selflessness and belief in caring for and respecting others was evident in everything she did. We honor her memory and her relentless pursuit of excellence that helped shape the path we follow today."

Van Belle was born March 25, 1946, in Zwartsluis, The Netherlands, the second child of Hendrik and Hennie Eisen. She emigrated with her family in 1951 to Canada.

She grew up in northern British Columbia and studied to become a teacher at Dordt University. Upon completion of her studies, she went to Bowmanville, Ontario, to teach in a Christian school, where she met Bill.

After their wedding on Aug. 14, 1970, they began a life of traveling together, beginning with their nine-month honeymoon. They eventually settled on Matsqui Prairie in 1973 to start Van Belle Nursery and raise their family.

"Grace was always a key partner in the business, managing the office, all the while raising their four children. They have been faithful members of Living Hope CRC, joining in 1972. Grace was passionate about Christian education and devoted many hours to the Women’s Circle and the Christian school board. Grace and Bill continued their world travels together, including many trips to Nicaragua to support the work of Partners Worldwide. Grace enjoyed hosting friends, customers, family gatherings and especially grandchildren on their lunch breaks in the backyard where she and Bill tended carefully to their garden," her obituary reads.

"We take comfort in our faith and remain committed to upholding the love and values she instilled in us," said Dave Van Belle, president of the nursery. "Thank you for your continued trust and partnership."

Read her full obituary here.