There are 1,394 soldiers buried at the Holten Canadian War Cemetery. They fought for our freedom. Every grave has a story. Take John Robert Lee, for example, buried in plot 12, row A, grave 5.

John Robert Lee was born on July 6, 1923, in Round Plains, Ontario. He grew up in the countryside, was athletic, quiet by nature, and ready to find his own way at a young age. Shortly after finishing school, he joined the army—a decision that would take him far from home and unintentionally make him a part of some of the fiercest fighting in Europe. He primarily served as an infantryman in machine gun units, providing support to troops.

Through training, periods of illness, and various transfers, he developed into an experienced soldier. His life story is one of duty, perseverance, and the unpredictability of war, where fate can strike unexpectedly and mercilessly. A car accident shortly after the liberation of the Netherlands cost him his life.

Volunteer Herman Sligman from our research team delved into this life story. Curious about the full story and more?

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