Else A Speirs

née Huisveld August 16, 1938 — January 1, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Else Aimee Speirs, who departed this life at the age of 87. A woman of extraordinary resilience and kindness, Else truly broke the mold; the world shines a little less brightly without her radiant light.

A Life of Grace and Resilience

Born in Magelang, Indonesia, to Pieter and Jeannette Huisveld, Else was the third of three daughters. Though her childhood was marked by the hardships of World War II, she emerged with a spirit of perseverance that would defi ne her life. After moving to the Netherlands, she dedicated herself to the service of others, earning her nursing degree from HMC Westeinde Hospital in Den Haag.

It was there that fate intervened. Else, a vibrant and beautiful young nurse, met Edward W. Speirs, a dashing military man in uniform. Their connection was instant and enduring, leading to a beautiful marriage in Den Haag on September 28, 1962—a union that fl ourished for sixty-three wonderful years.

A Legacy of Love

Upon moving to the United States, Else and Ed began their journey as parents. They were fi rst blessed with their sons, Karl and Irwin. When health challenges prevented Else from having more children, her heart remained open and her desire for a daughter led them to complete their family through the adoption of Valeska and Selena.

Else was the quintessential mother—a title she wore with unmatched devotion. While she spent years caring for others in her profession and supporting her husband’s career, her greatest masterpiece was her family. She was a woman of simple yet profound joys: the companionship of her dogs, the vibrant blooms of her garden, the scent of her award-winning Dutch apple pie, and the freedom of driving her convertible with the top down.

A Lasting Light

Known for her infectious sense of humor, welcoming smile, and tireless words of encouragement, Else left an indelible mark on everyone she met. She is survived by her devoted husband, Edward; her children, Karl, Irwin, Valeska, and Selena; her sister, Inge Huisveld; three grandchildren, Abbrielle, Devin, and Alysen; and two great-grandchildren, Julian and Quinn.

A Celebration of Color

We invite you to help us celebrate a life beautifully lived. In honor of Else’s love for the vibrant and the beautiful, the family kindly requests that guests wear bright colors or fl oral patterns to her memorial services. Let us remember her as she lived: in full, brilliant color.

Else loved flowers or donations may be made in her honor to the Animal Humane Society, a cause close to her heart.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 10th, at Fred Hunter’s Funeral Home, located at 718 S. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Viewing from 2-4:30 and funeral service starting at 4:30.

Condolences and messages of sympathy may be sent to her beloved husband, Edward Speirs, c/o JKV-Woodlands, 700 SW 4th Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33069.