Margaretha "Happy" Beirne

Margaretha was born in Spalding, England to Christina and Johannas Bijster on September 3, 1939. Given the moniker “Happy” at an early age, it remained throughout her lifetime.

After graduation, she was a Dutch language interpreter for British European Airways in London and was a fashion model for the Stella Goddard Agency in Belfast. One of her proudest moments was walking the runway for members of the Royal family.

After a whirlwind romance, she married the love of her life, Dr. Martin Connor Beirne and had two sons, Lloyd and Sean. The family immigrated to the United States in 1975 and settled in Connecticut, where they set up a family medical practice in Stamford. In addition to managing the office, Happy continued modeling and producing fashion shows for various charities. She remained a loyal and generous philanthropist throughout her life.

Happy made friends wherever she went and was known for her loyalty, sensitivity, thoughtfulness, and advice. The friendships she made lasted a lifetime and had friends all over the world. Along with her husband and boys, they traveled the world extensively. She had the gift of gab and had strong and informed opinions on anything from politics to movie stars, loved a crafty joke, always the life of the party and entertained a continuous stream of visitors in their home. Always impeccably dressed and camera ready, she made an impression wherever she went.

Surrounded by her family and friends, her perfect day would include a bit of chocolate and cheesecake, a proper cup of tea, a walk with her dogs, a difficult sudoko, a well written book, a strong gin and tonic and a fabulous meal with an ocean sunset. Happy was an avid gardener, swimmer and diver, voracious reader and keen with math and geography.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her young brother Lloyd, her older brother Marko and her husband. Happy is survived by her sons Lloyd and Sean whom she loved fiercely and her three grandchildren Oliver, Julianna and Carolina who were the light of her life. Also left to cherish her memory is her daughter in law, Christine; her cousin-sister, Beppy; and her lifelong friend Hilary. Happy will be missed by many — and remembered by all.

The family will be receiving guests at Babione-Kraeer Funeral Home, 1100 North Federal Highway in Boca Raton, Florida on Wednesday, April 13, 2022. Viewing and reception will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 and a service at 6:30 pm. A private burial will be performed at a later date.

The service will be streamed live at 6:30 EST via Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BabioneKraeer1/live/