January 14, 1932 - February 2, 2021
Beloved Wife, Mother, Oma, Aunt and much loved friend
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Jane at her home surrounded by family.
Jane was born in The Hague, Netherlands. She is predeceased by her parents and all eight siblings.
Jane will be sadly missed by her loving husband, Henk of 62 years and children John (Debbie), Diane (Mick), MaryAnn, Bernice (Kevin), and Coreen (Dave), as well as fifteen grandchildren, two great grandchildren, extended family and long time dear friends.
Jane started her life as a city girl. She trained and worked as a Registered Nurse in the Maternity Ward in the Netherlands. She married Henk in 1958 before they immigrated to Canada, eventually settling on a dairy farm in Chilliwack, BC. In 1990, Jane and Henk moved to their retirement home on Fairfield Island to enjoy their golden years.
Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Jane appreciated her great sense of humor, her wit, her loyalty and her deep love of family. She had a passion for learning and travelled extensively with Henk. She was an avid reader, an accomplished seamstress, and she loved nothing better than to spoil her grandchildren with knitted outfits and homemade baking. Jane loved to surround herself with music, whether it be singing, dancing, or listening to her favorite conductor, Andre Rieu.
In the last years, Jane's health declined and it was time for her family to now care for her. This was accomplished through Henk's strength and commitment as well as the support of the family. Although at times challenging, it was the family's privilege to walk with Jane through this journey.
The family wishes to thank Dr. A. Quayle and Laura Clarke (geriatric nurse) for their continued care and support as well as caregivers Courtney and Mikaela for their boundless kindness and patience. The family also wishes to extend a special thank you to friends and neighbors of Henk and Jane and the outpouring of love and kind words for the entire family will always be treasured.
Due to restrictions, a private Mass will be held at St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church on Friday, February 12, 2021 at 2:00 pm. Jane's godson and longtime family friend, Very Rev. Gary Franken, will be officiating. The service with a slide show to follow can be viewed at St. Mary's Chilliwack youtube channel, or St. Mary's Parish Chilliwack website and click the live stream. It will be available for viewing for approximately 5 days.