DE RYBER, Frans Herman Pieter
DE RYBER,Frans Herman Pieter
December 19, 1934 – April 30, 2026
Frans de Ryber, beloved husband of the late Gerarda Agnes Maria de Ryber (nee van der Meer), of Calgary, AB, passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the age of 91 years.
Frans was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on December 19, 1934. He became a carpenter and cabinet maker, then served in the Dutch military for two years. Frans met the love of his life Gerarda. They married on September 24, 1959. Before immigrating to Canada in 1969, Frans and Gerarda had two girls, Marianne in June 1962, and Pauline in June 1964. Juanita was born in October of 1972.
Frans was a devoted Roman Catholic. He was active in various ministries in the church, including leading Bible studies, serving as a Eucharistic Minister, and participating in live-ins and retreats. He also volunteered wherever he could.
He accomplished much throughout his life and was particularly proud of his family, devoting much time with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Frans was never afraid to try new things. He built houses, did electrical and plumbing. He wasn’t afraid of the computer and installed solar panels. He enjoyed gardening, teaching kids at the elementary school about his trade, and starting new businesses. His passion was his woodworking and his train sets.
His most memorable vacation was with his sister Tonya and brother-in-law, Joop seeing Europe, with Medjugorje and the Vatican as the highlight.
He will be most remembered for his strong Catholic faith, assisting those in need, and his tremendous love for his family.
Frans leaves behind his three daughters: Marianne (George), Pauline (Joe), and Juanita; seven grandchildren: Jessica Payne, Christopher Payne, Nicole Payne, Robert Payne, Robert Hammel (Nika), Francesca Yingst (Dallas), and Ellena Hammel; three great-grandchildren: Atlanta Payne, Scarlett Hammel, and Daniel Hammel.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Ascension Catholic Parish (1100 Berkshire Boulevard NW, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall.
Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. de Ryber’s service streamed live on the day of the service at www.MHFH.com. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Chalice Canada, www.chalice.ca.
Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Frans’s family at www.MHFH.com.
In living memory of Frans de Ryber, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes.