The Fund
The Shane Van Vliet Memorial Bursary Fund has been established at St. Thomas More Collegiate and funded by the Van Vliet family.
This bursary will cover the full tuition of one student offered by the Van Vliet Family, in memory of their son, father, brother and uncle, Shane Van Vliet, STMC Class of ’91, to support students who have an assessed financial need. Priority is given to students who have shown a willingness to excel and who are or intend to become very involved in all aspects of STMC. A bursary application must be submitted to be considered for this award.
About Shane Van Vliet
Gone Too Soon
With his passing on September 15, 2018, Shane Van Vliet left a legacy of memories as an incredible friend and father. As a Dutch descendant of the Van Vliet and Terlaak families that immigrated from the Netherlands in the 50’s and 60’s, Shane had a strong faith and deep family ties that brought so many of his aunts, uncles and cousins together on a weekly basis. Growing up in North Delta and South Surrey, he made many lifelong friends, but it was those unforgettable high school years attending St. Thomas More Collegiate where Shane will be remembered for his commitment as a Knight and all-star basketball player. His playing career led to a coaching stint leading the Knights to the basketball provincials in 1996, inspiring the students and athletes to reach their potential through hard work and commitment.
He loved sports in general and would debate endlessly about his favourite pro teams and athletes. He also relished any opportunity he could get to tee up for a 333 yard slice, just one of many long-lasting memories of Shane. Those who golfed with him would certainly testify to that. Outside of sports and school, a diploma in construction management from BCIT guided Shane to a successful career as a general contractor, constructing numerous projects throughout the Lower Mainland.
Above all, Shane’s family was his greatest priority in life. He taught and demonstrated upstanding values to live by, while bringing laughter to everyone in the room. This amazing and gifted gentle giant left us far too early. He brought out more smiles in his 44 years than most do in a lifetime. When you think of Shane Van Vliet, you can’t help but smile. Take the time out of your day to laugh and reminisce in his honour.
A bursary has been created in honour of this great Knight to support families that may not have the opportunity for a STMC education. May his legacy live on through this bursary and the families it helps.
