She was born in the Netherlands on December 21, 1931 to Jacob and Alida Van der Kooy. After completing high school in the Netherlands and marrying the love of her life, Jerfaas Haas, she immigrated to North America in the early 1950’s.
Once Maria settled in Michigan, she began work as an administrator at University of Michigan’s School of Education and continued her employment there for many years. In addition to her career, she was also vital in the Netherlands American University League (N.A.U.L.), acting as both a founder and member of the organization.
Maria is survived by her husband, Jerfaas, as well as her three children: Eveline Kelso (Rick), Jerry Haas (Karen), and Alida Luteyn (Robert), and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, Oma, and Oma-Oma.
A private memorial service will be held by Maria’s family.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Maria’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association.
