Obituary of Matthys Cornelis Nell

Matthys Cornelis Nell February 2, 1944 ~ August 22, 2025

Thys passed away peacefully in Red Deer Regional Hospital on August 22, 2025. Though his struggle was difficult he remained steadfast in his principals throughout. He was born in Wassenaar, Holland on February 2, 1944. The oldest of four children to Cornelis and Hermina Nell. Along with his family, he immigrated to South Mountain, Ontario in 1953, later settling in Osgoode, Ontario in 1959, where they established their family homestead.

In 1961 he began his life adventure by heading west, landing in Veteran, Alberta where he met the love of his life Anne Cragg and was introduced to the oil and gas industry that turned into his lifelong career. In 1968, Thys and Anne were married, beginning a union that spanned 57 years. Together they raised two children, Robert and JoAnne.

Thys and Anne made Coronation and Vegreville their homes and finally setting roots in Drumheller to be halfway between their children. His family was always at the centre of Thys’s life. Making it his mission to support his loved ones in any way possible, offering unwavering encouragement and doing everything in his power to enable them to pursue and achieve their goals. His love was constant, his support unconditional and his pride in them boundless.

Known for his unwavering determination and tireless work ethic, Thys approached every task with integrity and purpose. His steadfast commitment to doing what was right, even in the face of difficulty, earned him the respect of all who knew him. While strong-willed his perseverance and deep sense of responsibility were matched only by his moral conviction and dedication to others.

He lived his life, finding true fulfillment in both his work and many adventures. Whether soaring through the sky on the way to a fly in breakfast or air show, dropping the top of his SSR and going for a cruise, skiing down slopes with his family, camping, driving hours to watch his grandchildren’s events or exploring new places through travel with Anne, he embraced life with enthusiasm and a deep appreciation for the experiences that brought him happiness. Most adventures included a characteristic detour to check in on a well site or two on the way home – proof that his dedication to work was as much a part of him as his love for exploring new back roads and supporting his family.

He lived a quiet life, never wanting to trouble others with his struggles. He walked with great humility, a quiet strength and modesty.

Forever loved and cherished, Thys leaves to mourn his wife, Anne; son Robert, daughter JoAnne (Glenn) Smigelski; grandchildren: Cortney (Travis)Shoemaker, Terrin Smigelski, Garin Smigelski (Alyssa); great grandchild Halston Shoemaker (and counting); sister Joan (Jack) Robb; brother Joe (Shannon) Nell; sister-in-law Catherine Nell; nieces and nephews: Jeff, Michael, Leda, Emily and Amy: as well as numerous other relatives and many dear friends.