Arceen "Junior" Vande Sompel

Arceen 'Junior' Vande Sompel passed away on January 5, 2026, at the age of 90, at Chatham Kent Health Alliance, with his family by his side. Born in Chatham, he was the son of the late Arceen and Zulma Vande Sompel. He was predeceased by his wife of 61 years, Marlene (2018), and sons Brian (1999) and David (2022). Arceen is survived by his daughter Denice Leitenberger (Dan) and son Michael Vande Sompel. He was adored by his grandchildren Kyle (Carly) Leitenberger and Adam (Rebecca) Leitenberger, Madison, Ethan, and Nicholas Vande Sompel, and was a doting great-grandfather of Daniel Leitenberger. He will also be missed by his faithful companion Rascal. Arceen is survived by his siblings Antoinette Therrien, Richard Vande Sompel, Sharron Crickard, Lewie Vande Sompel, and Patty Vande Sompel, and was predeceased by siblings Camiel Vande Sompel, Robert Vande Sompel, and June Komar. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and in-laws. A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with words of remembrance shared at 11 a.m. in the RiverRoom at the Links of Kent, followed by a luncheon. Aquamation has taken place. Arrangements have been entrusted to Life Transitions Burial and Cremation Service Inc. Donations to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation would be appreciated.