Wilma Theresa Laninga

Wilma Laninga (nee Vandervelden) was born in St. Paul's Hospital just shy of 90 years ago, and passed away gracefully at Vancouver Hospice, after a 10-month sickness from Lymphoma. Wilma was predeceased by her husband Chris, eldest son Alan, brother Clare, and friend Bruce. She leaves behind her sons and daughters-in-law, Ken (Bev), Jack (Cindy), Glenn, and Cheryl; brother Len (Barb) and sister Linda (Richard); Valarie; and grandchildren Emily, Aimee, Carlie, Tracy, Michael, Zander, and great grandchildren Brayden, Courtney and Winter.

Wilma attended Renfrew Elementary and Vancouver Technical High School. She then went on to pursue further education at Bible College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After the first year, she returned to Vancouver and worked as a bookkeeper and clerical worker at Woodwards and VGH. Wilma fell madly in love with Chris, and they married in 1954. While they raised four active boys, Wilma still worked part-time at Burnaby Library and Burnaby Central High School. She lost her loving Chris in 1979. Shortly after, Wilma made a steadfast decision, and moved to the West End of Vancouver, working part-time bookkeeping for her sons at Chrislan.

Wilma was an incredibly active, self-motivated, and inspiring woman. She was determined to exercise, eat nutritionally, travel, pursue her love of God, and continue her love of learning. While living in the West End, she walked everywhere, worked out at the YWCA and enjoyed yoga. She enjoyed travelling, especially with her loving friend Bruce. Together they continued learning, attending lectures, exploring spirituality, and enjoying life together. Her determination was evident in her graduation from Simon Fraser University, at age 70, with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in History, which she said contributed to the biggest achievement in her life.

Wilma attended St. Andrew Westley Church where she enjoyed seeing friends and continuing her exploration of spirituality and love of God. With fellow members, she was able to make a large impact on the community helping fight homelessness, feeding the poor, and helping the sick.

Wilma loved Vancouver. She woke up everyday the last 25 years enjoying a coffee and breathtaking views of English Bay, The Lost Lagoon, Kits and Spanish Banks. Right up to the last 10 months, she was able to drive, bus or walk to church events, visit friends, shop at all her special stores or restaurants from UBC to West Vancouver. She was very independent and prided herself at knowing the best place to park.

Wilma loved her family and friends deeply, and we all have many lasting memories of get-togethers. All of the grandchildren have fond memories of feeding the ducks and hugging a tree at Stanley Park, walking on the beach, and being encouraged to express themselves creatively through art. Wilma was a very open-minded thinker and accepted varying cultural views and religions, while maintaining her strong values. She had a genuine interest in others. We all have been fortunate to have learned from Wilma’s activity, determination, and willpower.

Our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated and compassionate staff at St. Paul’s Palliative care and Vancouver Hospice Society for making her last days comfortable.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled at St. Andrew’s Westley United Church on March 19, 1 pm, at 1022 Nelson St. Vancouver. Vaccine passports are not required; however masks are mandatory. Due to Covid restrictions, no food or drink is permitted after the service.

Donations in Wilma’s name can be made to First United Church Community Ministry Society. 320 East Hastings St. or online at www.firstunited.ca