'spread your tiny wings and fly away…‘
It is with great sadness that the family of Thelma Cornelia Abma announces her passing on Feb 1, 2023. Thelma was born in Friesland in the Netherlands on January 6, 1931. She often shared stories of her childhood growing up in the village of Pingyum. In her early years, she survived the war, the loss of her home after a bombing and the tragic loss of her mother not long after. In 1954 she emigrated to Canada with her first daughter to join her husband Sidney Abma in Williams Lake B.C. The family lived in various other communities in B.C. including Vancouver, Powell River and Port Alberni before finally settling in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam.
She had an active life raising her family, working as an insurance agent and volunteering her time to causes that were important to her. She was a volunteer at Wilson Centre for many years where she was known for her soups and scones. She loved to keep busy, knitting, sewing, and cooking for her loved ones. Her flourishing flowers and plants showcased her passion and aptitude for gardening. She was an avid reader with a bright mind, and she always kept up with current events and politics.
Predeceased by her husband Sidney, daughter Joyce and brother Douwe, Thelma is survived by and will be dearly missed by her daughters Ingrid (Amole) and Sonja (Colin); grandchildren Julian (Sheena), Remy (Scott) Travis (Cherrill), Chésa (Eric), Kurt and Katie: great-grandchildren Emily, Hannah, Lily, Stella, Annika and Allison; great-great-granddaughter Saskia and her nieces and nephews in Friesland and Denmark.
Her family and friends will remember her for her strength, persistence and constant support. She is loved by many and will be dearly missed.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialportcoquitlam.com for the Abma family.
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