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COR JANSON Obituary pic

COR JANSON

Born: Jul 19, 1938

Date of Passing: Apr 01, 2012

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COR JANSON July 19, 1938 - April 1, 2012 Cor was born in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. He is predeceased by his parents by many years and has a brother Franz currently living in Zeeland, The Netherlands and a sister Helena also from The Netherlands. Growing up in the Netherlands during the Second World War was difficult due to the lack of food so many of the children, including Cor, were sent to live on farms and were separated from their families for extended periods. However, the war eventually ended and he got an education. He began his career at the Rotterdam Zoo. In 1964, he made the decision to immigrate to Canada. Cor remained here in Winnipeg to start a long and rewarding career with the Winnipeg Zoo. He had a love and understanding of the animal kingdom like no other. During these early years he was a regular on the Uncle Bob T.V. show, showcasing various animals from the zoo. He had such a wide array of talents and interests. From constructing tables and other trinkets out of interesting tree roots, to jewellery making. He was seldom idol and always had some project on the go. For many years, Cor helped out at the International Fur Factory, skinning bears, wolves and whatever was asked of him. He would preserve the skulls of some of these animals and keep them to show to the kids at Zoo Camp. Another one of his interests - teaching the children in summer Zoo Camp, a hugely popular camp at the Winnipeg Zoo. Cor loved to travel to exotic places, sometimes he would fit in some work at a zoo at a destination or travel by an unconventional means. He crossed the Atlantic as a passenger on a Merchant Marine Ship. Several winters he spent in Hawaii, a favourite destination. Sometimes he could be found volunteering at the Honolulu Zoo and more often than not he'd be at the beach either in the water or with friends on a Catamaran. One winter, his travels took him to St. Marten in the Caribbean to help restore a zoo. He made several road trips to Vancouver and California, visiting friends along the way. He made time for return trips to the Netherlands over the years as well. A true outdoorsman - Cor moved to Lac du Bonnet, MB where he could plant a garden, have a workshop for his many hobbies and fish the lake whenever he desired. A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, May 5 leaving Sobering Funeral Chapel, 1035 Park Avenue E., Beausejour at 3:00 p.m. and processing to Riverland Cemetery in Lac du Bonnet, MB. SOBERING FUNERAL CHAPEL CREMATORIUM, Beausejour 268-3510 or MB Toll Free 1-877-776-2220 www.soberingfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 03, 2012

Condolences & Memories (11 entries)

  • Cor was one of the supervisors when I worked at the Wpg. Zoo in the late 60’s and early 70’s. He and his partners Rolf and Erwin, treated us kindly and in a friendly manner. From darting errant leopards to capturing cormorants Cor was always where the action was. His big smile and enthusiasm helped to create a welcoming environment and positive work atmosphere. Thanks Cor. - Posted by: Barry Esselmont (Work) on: Jul 24, 2022

  • I knew Cor for many years from a young child. My mother who was the same age Deanna enjoyed joking around and meeting at the A&W Polo Park. He was so knowledgeable and such a wonderful person. Always happy! I learned alot from him about animals as I visited the Zoo everyday in my teens. Unfortunately my mother too passed away just a couple weeks before Cor so I hope there having coffee and laughing together again in heaven as I remember them growing up. You will also be missed but the memories will always remain with me. Til we meet again. RIP Cor Big Hugs Parris - Posted by: Parris Larose (Long Time Good Freind) on: Jul 04, 2017

  • Cor was a one of a kind person. Very out going and always out looking for the next adventure. From looking for big foot to being on tv show. I remember my mom telling me when I was young that Cor took her to the zoo and gave her a once in a life time experience of being able to pet A tiger. He will be missed by all family and friends. - Posted by: Joey and Stacey Kunzie (Family) on: Sep 15, 2012

  • I met and fell in love with Cor Janson in Hawaii in 1977. He was the most wonderful, kind and loving human being I have ever met. We lost contact over the years and I recently had attempted to contact him a few months ago but was unable to reach him at home. I hope that Cor did not suffer any illness and passed quickly to the Lord. He will always remain in my heart and thoughts. Until I see you again my friend I will continue to miss you. Love, Pam - Posted by: Pamela Amirault (Friend) on: May 24, 2012

  • Met Cor Janson in the 1980's at the zoo. Meeting him was like meeting a movie star. - Posted by: Todd Phippen (fan) on: May 07, 2012

  • I was deeply saddened to hear of Cor's passing. We met on the Uncle Bob show, which I occasionally directed on CKY-TV, and became friends. His knowledge of the animal kingdom was most impressive and visits to the Winnipeg Zoo were always a treat. Farewell old friend .. and sincere condolences to the family. Jack Stuart. - Posted by: Jack Stuart (Friend) on: May 05, 2012

  • I met Cor while volunteering at the Birdwarren Sanctuary in Charleswood. He always had terrific stories to tell. Travelling was very important to him and I'm so glad he did the things he loved most. - Posted by: Barb Rutherford (Friend) on: May 04, 2012

  • I fondly remember Mr. Janson and his guest appearances on the Uncle Bob show. As a child, I had met him a number of times through my parents and activities of the Dutch Canadian Society. Mr. Janson had a wonderful gift in his delivery of knowledge with his animated and enthusiastic personality. I remember him to be a kind and warm person who had a sincere interest in people and an incredible love for animals. May he Rest In Peace in a Heaven that is filled with all the things that he loves! - Posted by: Sheila Spapens-Lecoq (A fan of the Uncle Bob show.) on: May 03, 2012

  • I first met Cor at the Assiniboine Park Zoo where I was also working for the Zoological Society of Manitoba. Cor's stories were always fascinating and very interesting. He was so matter-of-fact about details on the workings of the animal kingdom. He loved the outdoors and was so happy when he moved from Winnipeg to Lac du Bonnet. I wish I had spent more time with him while we were at our cottage, but alas, we didn't make that happen. We will miss you, Cor, and we will always think fondly of you. - Posted by: Linda Scholcz (Friend) on: May 03, 2012

  • Our condolences to family. Sorry we are out of country and can not attend any services. - Posted by: Al & Dolores Johnson (Friends & Neighbors) on: May 03, 2012

  • R.I.P. Buddy Jim - Posted by: Jim Lane (Old Friend) on: May 03, 2012

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