OBITUARY
Cornelius (Kees) Tesselaar
27 October 1941 – 11 January 2014
PATRIARCH of Silvan firm Tesselaar Bulbs, Kees Tesselaar, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at Knox Private hospital on 11 January, aged 72.
Mr Tesselaar’s life was devoted to developing the Tesselaar family business with his father and brothers.
The eldest son of Dutch immigrants, he had a passion for plants and bulbs and was dedicated to furthering the horticultural industry.
In his professional life, Mr Tesselaar made significant contributions to the Australian horticultural industry, pioneering new technologies, improving education options and championing the bulb industry. He sat on many boards and advisory committees.
Mr Tesselaar was a force to be reckoned with in all his dealings, whether private or professional.
He was awarded The Centenary Medal in 2001 for long service through horticulture, assisting the Dutch community and fund-raising.
Mr Tesselaar was the recipient of the Australian Horticulture Award of Excellence in 1997 and also President of Council 1995-1996 at the University of Melbourne’s Victorian College of Agriculture and Horticulture.
He served the local area, for much of his life, working with and mentoring many people.
He also shared his love of flowers with the world every year at the Tesselaar Tulip Festival, and took great pride in showing off his farm.
In his private life, Kees was committed to his loving wife Sheila and took pride in helping each of his children find their own paths.
Kees Tesselaar leaves behind his wife of 45 years Sheila, children Monica, Mez, Lisa, Michael, Joseph, Paul, Ruth and Rebecca, and grandchilden Matthew, Christopher, Timothy, Joshua and Austin. He was father-in law to Ben, Roger, Carolyn, Rachael, Danny and Matt, and a special friend to many.
– The funeral service for Kees Tesselaar was held on Saturday at the Tesselaar Tulip Farm in Silvan followed by his burial at Lilydale Memorial Park.
