It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved mother on October 31, 2019, in Calgary, at the age of 95. Throughout her long life, Mom was a loving wife for 64 years, a mother of 3, an Oma to 14, and a friend to many. She felt incredibly rich to have loved so many, and she received the love tenfold!
Born of Dutch descent, Mom was raised in Sumatra, Indonesia. She and Dad (Rene) both survived the Japanese prisoner of war (POW) camps and married shortly after. Eventually, they travelled to Holland with their two girls, lived there for a few years, and then made their home in Canada.
Mom raised 3 children, nurturing their diverse interests throughout the family’s countless moves from Indonesia to Holland, and then to Canada (Saskatchewan and Alberta). She dabbled in selling Nutrimetics skin care and became an enthusiastic and trusted salesperson. Mom also worked at the Misericordia Hospital as a Nurse’s Aide, where she especially loved her work with geriatric patients.
Mom was much loved and had many friends. She was a wonderful cook who generously shared her knowledge and skills. She survived a POW camp for 3 years without carrying the harshness of it in her heart. Mom’s enduring achievement, evident until her last day, was her kindness and ability to see the good in others. She personified “I’m OK, You’re OK”, as her recent words to us exemplified: We are so different but also so much alike; love each other so much. We have a right in this life to be ourselves. Mom held a deep wisdom, a strong spiritual belief, and an unconditional love for all who walked through her life. She touched our lives profoundly.
“No one can build you the bridge on which you, and only you, must cross the river of life” (ee cummings). Love you Mom, thank you forever, rest in peace.
Mom was predeceased by Rene, her beloved husband and lifetime partner of 64 years. She is survived by her brothers Remi (Carmen) and Rob (Ursula); her daughters Mieke (Les Cameron) of Yellowknife, and Janneke (Joe Frank) of Calgary; and her son Jeff (Tracey Ruysenaars) of Edmonton. As their Oma, her memory is forever held in the hearts of her six cherished grandchildren: Marni (Brendan), Lisa (Cam), Robb (Shelley), Lesley (Dave), Michael (Gillian), and Jack; and her eight great-grandchildren: Karissa, Laini, Simon, Sadie, Sebastian, Seraphina, Oscar, and Ella. Mom leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins scattered across Canada, the US, Holland, Sardinia, and Curacao.
The family would like to thank the many friends who have supported them in their time of bereavement. A Celebration of Life for family will be held at a future date.
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