Theodorus (Dirk) Maria Jacobus den Haan, 89, of Granville Ferry, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2025 at Valley Hospice in Kentville, NS surrounded by family.

Born in Hilversum, Noord-Holland, Netherlands on November 1, 1935 to Jacobus and Helena (Schwarz) den Haan, he was the oldest of 13 brothers and sisters. At the age of 16, he and his family immigrated to Nova Scotia to start a new life. First landing at Pier 21, they eventually settled in Annapolis Valley. Dirk owned and operated his dairy farm on Mt. Hanley Road, Brickton, where he also raised his family.

An avid fan of sailing, he would journey up and down the Annapolis River in his boat and wherever else he could as long as the weather cooperated. He also enjoyed walking, playing chess, scrabble, sudoku and maybe his favourite, the stock market. Into retirement, he moved to Granville Ferry outside of Annapolis Royal. He took advantage of the greater free time to spend with his wife Mary, engage in his hobbies and travel across Canada, to Cuba, Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, South Africa and more.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Mary (née Garneau); children Michael (Brenda) Diabo, Barbara (Patrick Bureau) Diabo, Dirk (Marilize Botha) den Haan and Frank (Izumi Semba) den Haan; grandchildren Marshall Diabo, Malia den Haan, Thierry Dubay-Bureau and Mira Dubay-Bureau; siblings, Frank (Cathy) den Haan, Mitzi (Al) Durham, Tonny (Joe) Leyten, Lea (late Eric) Gebhardt, Lisa Martell (late Peter Young), Ellie (Danny) Williams, Max (late Charlene) den Haan, Ineke (Terry) Porter, Karlene den Haan. Besides his parents, he was predeceased by siblings Lenie (Larry) Fletcher, Maria (late Jean) Gaudet and John (Darlene) den Haan.

The family would like to express their gratitude to all the health care providers for their compassion and care during Dirk’s final months and days.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Valley Hospice Foundation (Kentville, NS), VON, Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, or charity of your choice.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 30, 2025 at 11:00am at St. Louis Catholic Church in Annapolis Royal. 

On line condolences may be sent at www.kaulbachfamilyfuneralhome.com