

๐ด๐๐๐๐๐ ๐จ๐๐๐ ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐พ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ a beloved resident of Coquitlam, BC passed away peacefully in the presence of family members on March 26, 2025, at the age of 74. Monica was born on October 3, 1950, in the Netherlands. She and her family immigrated to Canada in 1953 where they made their home in the suburbs of Montreal. Her family moved to Vancouver in the summer of 1968. She is predeceased by her father, Jacob (1971), her mother Kathe (1986) her husband Grant (2015) and her eldest brother Roelf (2024). Monica is survived by her brothers Harm (Jocelyn), Bert, Dick (Sony) and her sisters MaryAnn (Mike) and Christine (Ron). She was also an aunt to 3 nephews, 6 nieces, 4 great nephews and 3 great nieces. Family was extremely important to her. Monica spent 56 years in the insurance business. She was a trailblazer in an industry that was traditionally dominated by men. She broke the glass ceiling before there was a glass ceiling. She went on to become an Instructor at BCIT in the General Insurance and Risk Management program. She will be missed by clients and students alike. Monica was also an avid volunteer. Her first volunteer position was that of Girl Guide Leader at 18 years of age. This was just the beginning of her life of service. She volunteered for the Vancouver Tourist association and along with her husband worked on events like the Vancouver Sea Festival Parade, and the PNE Parade. The two of them also helped with the Hyack Festival Parade in New Westminster and the Kamloops Centennial Parade. She worked as a campaign manager for a local candidate in at least 2 federal elections. She chaired a branch of the toastmastersโ group in New Westminster and was a Rotarian in New Westminster for 20 years. She believed in giving back to her community. Prior to his death she and her husband Grant made many trips around the province with their truck and 5th wheel and were members in Chilliwackโs Camperland for many seasons. Monica was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 14 years ago and fought a valiant battle right to the end. She died with grace and dignity; the same way she lived her life.
She will be sorely missed by all those who had the honour of knowing her.
A celebration of Monicaโs life will be held on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Bell Burnaby Funeral Chapel. Monicaโs wish was for all those who attend to wear bright colours. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation, PO Box 8700 Stn Terminal, Vancouver, BC V6B 9Z9. https://bccancerfoundation.com/donations/homepage-nav/?s_src=NavDonate
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