Joanna DeVries Hajes

Joanna passed into the hands of her Lord on 12 February 2017 and went to live eternally in her beloved Holy City. She was born in September 1929 in Holland to Albert and Annechien Kolthof, a middle child between two brothers. Her childhood and formative years were remarkable in that she survived the invasion, occupation and eventual liberation of her country from Nazi tyranny. Like so many of her age, she carried with her the traces and remembrances of this time well into her adult years. Following the war years she met Gerrit Hajes, a handsome young soldier just back home from Indonesia. They married and soon were on their way to Canada with the entire Kolthof family and following a hope for a place to begin a new life. The family settled in Winnipeg and her early immigrant years were filled with poverty and hardship. Joanna endured with hope and tenacity, facing material poverty, loneliness and hard physical labor while raising her children and striving always to build a better life. Sadly, Gerrit passed away too soon in October of 1986 and Joanna was faced with the prospect of a solitary life ahead. However, some years later through the resources of her Church, Joanna met and married another widower who charmed her with his big city manners and his “fine wardrobe”. Together they moved to B.C. and once again began to build a better life. They shared friendship and love in their happy companionship and together they explored the natural beauties to be found throughout this continent. As they transitioned into their eighties, declining physical and mental health no longer allowed for travel so they dedicated their days to watching the Price Is Right and enjoying contented days in their home in Duncan, BC. Ultimately Joanna would have to move to live in a care home, a transition that was very hard for her and against which her tenacious spirit would fight but eventually accept. Peter remained dedicated to his life’s companion and continued to care for her as much as he was able, visiting her several times a day. Against strict orders from the dietary staff, Peter never failed to smuggle her a hard-boiled egg, a snack she enjoyed immeasurably every day. Joanna’s health continued to decline but her stamina was not so easily diminished. As numerous health problems, large and small continued to test her faith and will for life, Joanna remained steadfast until her final days. She stayed devoted to her God and was resigned to let herself slip into his hands when he so chose to take her home. On Sunday, 12 February 2017 she was taken home to reside in that eternal new Jerusalem with her Lord.

And it is well with her soul.