Anna (Ann), Cornelia, Geertruida, Lydia van Meetelen-Tjalsma

3-February-1930 – 10-November-2024

Bergschenhoek, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands

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In cherished memory of our beautiful mother, Ann van Meetelen-Tjalsma who departed

just a few days ago on the 10th of November, leaving with us the legacy of her

remarkable 94 years.

She went to be with the Lord and her cherished family and friends. We are all deeply

heartbroken, as she truly was the heart and soul of our family. Her absence is already

felt profoundly. Born in Bergschenhoek, a suburb of Rotterdam, The Netherlands, our

Dutch mother exuded warmth and embraced her family and everyone who crossed her

path with complete devotion. Her infectious laughter and vibrant personality were

outstanding! She made everyone feel at home, often showering us with love and plenty

of food.

She radiated happiness, always graced with her lovely smile, and was effortlessly

entertained by laughter. Her boundless curiosity about life shone through as she asked

sincere questions about your day and your activities; and after all that, she never

wanted you to leave!

Mom had a unique talent for bringing friends and family together, often gathering us

around the dining room table for games of Bridge or Rummikub, where her competitive

spirit really brought everyone together.

She completed her high school education at Nassau School in Rotterdam and then

pursued two additional years in business administration, where she studied subjects

like bookkeeping, marketing and sales, as well as shorthand in French, English,

German, and Dutch.

From 1950 to 1952, she worked as a secretary at Trost Ltd. in Rotterdam. Following

that, from 1952 to 1954, Ann held a position as a secretary at Gryseels & Co., an

advertising agency also in Rotterdam. She then transitioned to a new role as a

secretary at Havero, an import/export company, where she worked from 1954 to 1958.

In April 1958, Ann, along with her friend Nel Bremen (Kerlen), embarked on a vacation

to Canada aboard the Holland America Line’s S.S. The intention was to spend a year

there. While in Toronto, she met Rimmer, and they tied the knot on May 26, 1962, in

The Netherlands. The ceremony was conducted by her father, who served as the

mayor, at the City Hall. Following the civil ceremony, they proceeded to a church

service in The Hague, where Rimmer’s father, a minister, provided the blessing. The

church ceremony was attended by numerous family and friends, who later gathered at

a restaurant to enjoy a delightful dinner.

They embarked on their honeymoon journey across Europe in their Volkswagen,

visiting countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Italy,

Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. After spending six weeks in the Netherlands, they

departed by ship from Rotterdam to Halifax. They resided in Toronto for a period before

settling in Clarkson (Mississauga) for six years. Later, they returned to the Netherlands

with their sons for a brief time, before eventually coming back to Canada.

The rest is history.

Rest in Peace Mom! We love you!

On behalf of my Father, Rimmer Tjalsma, Sr. and brother, Enno Tjalsma

Rimmer (Rim) Tjalsma, Jr.

Mobile: 289-834-0215

Rim.tjalsma@gmail.com

Mailing Address:

Rimmer Tjalsma (Sr.)

Age Care Brant

Appleby Neighbourhood

1182 North Shore Blvd. East

Suite # 324

Burlington, Ontario, L7S 1C5, Canada

Details regarding Funeral/Celebration of Life to follow in due time.

Ter nagedachtenis aan onze prachtige moeder, Ann van Meetelen-Tjalsma, die een

paar dagen geleden op 10 november overleed en ons de erfenis van haar opmerkelijke

94 jaar naliet.

Ze ging naar de Heer en haar geliefde familie en vrienden. We zijn allemaal

diepbedroefd, want ze was echt het hart en de ziel van onze familie. Haar afwezigheid

is nu al diep voelbaar. Geboren in Bergschenhoek, een buitenwijk van Rotterdam,

straalde onze Nederlandse moeder warmte uit en omarmde ze haar familie en iedereen

die haar pad kruiste met volledige toewijding. Haar aanstekelijke lach en levendige

persoonlijkheid waren geweldig! Ze zorgde ervoor dat iedereen zich thuis voelde, en

overlaadde ons vaak met liefde en veel eten.

Ze straalde geluk uit, altijd versierd met haar mooie glimlach, en werd moeiteloos

vermaakt door gelach. Haar grenzeloze nieuwsgierigheid naar het leven scheen door

toen ze oprechte vragen stelde over je dag en je activiteiten; en na dat alles wilde ze

nooit dat je wegging!

Moeder had een uniek talent om vrienden en familie bij elkaar te brengen, vaak

verzamelde ze ons rond de eettafel voor een potje bridge of rummikub, waar haar

competitieve geest iedereen echt bij elkaar bracht.

Ze voltooide haar middelbare schoolopleiding aan de Nassau School in Rotterdam en

volgde daarna nog twee jaar bedrijfskunde, waar ze vakken als boekhouden,

marketing en verkoop studeerde, evenals steno in het Frans, Engels, Duits en

Nederlands.

Van 1950 tot 1952 werkte ze als secretaresse bij Trost Ltd. in Rotterdam. Daarna, van

1952 tot 1954, bekleedde Ann een functie als secretaresse bij Gryseels & Co., een

reclamebureau ook in Rotterdam. Ze ging toen over naar een nieuwe rol als

secretaresse bij Havero, een import/exportbedrijf, waar ze van 1954 tot 1958 werkte.

In april 1958 ging Ann, samen met haar vriendin Nel Bremen (Kerlen), op vakantie

naar Canada aan boord van de S.S. van de Holland America Line. Het was de

bedoeling om daar een jaar door te brengen. In Toronto ontmoette ze Rimmer en ze

trouwden op 26 mei 1962 in Nederland. De ceremonie werd geleid door haar vader, die

burgemeester was, in het stadhuis. Na de burgerlijke ceremonie gingen ze naar een

kerkdienst in Den Haag, waar Rimmers vader, een dominee, de zegen gaf. De

kerkelijke ceremonie werd bijgewoond door talrijke familieleden en vrienden, die later

bijeenkwamen in een restaurant om te genieten van een heerlijk diner.

Ze begonnen aan hun huwelijksreis door Europa in hun Volkswagen en bezochten

landen als Nederland, België, Luxemburg, Frankrijk, Italië, Zwitserland, Oostenrijk en

Duitsland. Na zes weken in Nederland te hebben doorgebracht, vertrokken ze per schip

van Rotterdam naar Halifax. Ze woonden een tijdje in Toronto voordat ze zich zes jaar

lang in Clarkson (Mississauga) vestigden. Later keerden ze met hun zonen voor een

korte tijd terug naar Nederland, voordat ze uiteindelijk terugkwamen naar Canada.

De rest is geschiedenis.

Rust zacht Moeder! We houden van je!

Namens mijn vader, Rimmer Tjalsma, Sr. en broer, Enno Tjalsma

Rimmer (Rim) Tjalsma, Jr.

Mobiel: 289-834-0215

Rim.tjalsma@gmail.com

Adres:

Rimmer Tjalsma (Sr.)

Age Care Brant

Appleby Neighbourhood

1182 North Shore Blvd. East

Suite # 324

Burlington, Ontario, L7S 1C5, Canada

WILLEMSE, CONRAD May 17, 1947 – March 22, 2023

It is with great sadness that his family announce that Conrad gently passed at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital in Toronto, leaving us for a higher place and his next great adventure, where he will be free from recent health struggles. Conrad will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Diane (nee Penney); daughters, Andrea (Andrew) and Merrilees (Kevin); sister, Nancy (Terry); brother, Theo (Patricia); grandchildren, Amelia, Olivia, Angus and Leida; and his many nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. He was predeceased by his sister, Marian Moran (nee Willemse). He was a great friend to many who were so important to him, some of whom were like family. Those who knew Conrad have cherished his presence in their lives. He enthusiastically lived a full life and his joy was infectious as he embraced many adventures, and spent meaningful time with his family and friends. He had his share of life challenges, growing into a spiritual man who tried to live his life through love and compassion and a connection with God. This included completing a Masters in Theology later in life and volunteer service in the jails, at church, and on numerous Boards. Equally impressive was his love of serving his clients through the practice of law, specializing in helping business entrepreneurs. Conrad’s legacy of great debates and discussions, his passion for music and art and his boisterous laugh will be lovingly remembered. He loved singing in the Mendelssohn Choir for over 40 years. As a runner, squash player, cyclist and lover of the outdoors, Conrad also energetically embraced physical activity. This included his love of biking everywhere – a reflection of his Dutch upbringing. There was never a dull moment with Conrad. He was one-of-a-kind. Our many loving and funny memories will forever keep him close to our hearts.

 

The family will receive friends at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville) from 1:00 – 3:00 and 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 30th.

A funeral service will be held for Conrad at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament, 2982 Yonge Street, on Friday, March 31st at 11:00 a.m.

There will be a celebration of life hosted by the family following the burial from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. Details to be provided separately.

Donations can be made to the Henri Nouwen Society or Charity of Your Choice, in memory of Conrad.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.

Dear NLC Friends,

It is with great sadness, we announce the passing away of our friend Riet van Duyn. Wim and Riet were long time members of the Netherlands Luncheon in Toronto. Riet’s smile always lit up the room. Riet was always willing to lend the helping hand.

Our sincere condolences to her family and friends.

OBITUARY

Maria Mathilda van Duyn

MAY 18, 1931 – FEBRUARY 9, 2022

Passed away peacefully in Hospice Georgian Triangle on Wednesday February 9, 2022, at the age of 90.

Predeceased by her beloved husband Wim. She is survived by her sons Norm and his wife Nancy and by Keith and his partner Diana. Cherished Oma to Philip, Nikole, Lukas, Jason (Jade), Justin (Christine), Nixon, Weston, Layne, Oaklin and Laken. Dear sister to Peter (Marjan) and predeceased by her brother Cass (survived by Maude). She will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Over 20 years Riet was very generous and active with her time at Holland Christian Homes. Since there arrival to Canada 1955 with Wim they have been very active in the Dutch community. Wim and Riet were long time members of the Netherlands Luncheon in Toronto. Riet’s smile always lit up the room.

A special thank you to Jane, Jean and friends, also Pastor Hank and staff at Holland Christian Homes for providing Riet (Maria) with the comfort of home in the Holland Christian Home community.

Click on this link to visit the Obituary Page, and please leave your Memories or comments about your relationship with Riet.

The Dutch Community in Ontario has lost an important leader of the community.

Riet van Duyn was a very important part of the Dutch community in Ontario. I have known Riet for over 50 years. Riet and her husband were a vital member of the Dutch community. She and her husband were good long-time friends with my mother, Aleida Limbertie. She performed, volunteered, and helped organize at many Dutch events and festivals. A proud member of the Netherlands Folklore Group since the 1960’s as she has participated of many Dutch community activities. Some of the highlights include: performing with the Netherlands Folklore Group at Expo 67 in Montreal or volunteering with the Amsterdam Pavilion at Toronto International Caravan  and  as always, her husband Wim was not far from the many Dutch activities taking pictures. She was as passionate as my mother, Aleida Limbertie with promoting Dutch culture in Ontario. In later years she helped preserved the Netherlands Folklore Group costume collection and Folklore Doll collection that is now archived and housed at the Holland Christian homes in Brampton. Riet was very passionate about her Dutch heritage, helping promote it over the last 60 years. The Dutch Community in Ontario has lost an important leader of the community.

We will miss you Riet!

Wendy Limbertie

Dear NLC Friends,

It is with a heavy heart I give you the sad news that “onze” our Frits, has passed away, peacefully on September 12, 2021.
Our condolences to the Begemann Family.

OBITUARY

Begemann, Frits Albert

It is with profound sadness that the family announces the passing of Frits Begemann on Sunday, September 12, 2021 in Waterloo, Ontario at the age of 93. Beloved husband of Wilhelmina Begemann (1930-2018) for 60 years. Loving father of Karen Begemann (Graeme) and Chris Begemann (Elly). Cherished “Opa” of Eric, Lindsay and Christopher. Dear uncle of Judith Andreassen and Stephan Orzechowski. Lifelong friend of Ann and Rimmer Tjalsma (since high school). Predeceased by his siblings Harro (Ineke) and Marga (Wim).

Frits was very sociable and had a gift for making lasting friendships. He loved people, sharing stories and enjoying a good laugh. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, always keenly interested and supportive of individual dreams and pursuits. Family camping trips were a highlight of every summer vacation, travelling across Canada and the USA. After the children were grown; Wilhelmina and Frits travelled in their motorhome with their two beloved wheaten terriers taking time to enjoy the scenery through photography and water colour painting. Both were also passionate about music and theatre, and took in classical concerts, music festivals and plays on their travels.

Frits immigrated to Canada in 1952. He devoted over 65 years to serving the Dutch Community in Ontario principally as Executive Director of the Netherlands Luncheon Club (NLC). The NLC was started in 1954 as a social club and more importantly as a networking group to provide much needed business contacts to the Dutch Community and as a catalyst for promoting Dutch Canadian relations. He was considered the backbone of the club, coordinating well over 300 events. His contributions were officially recognized by the Dutch Government in 2014 where he was awarded the ‘Ridder in de Orde van Oranje-Nassau’ (Knight in the Order of Orange-Nassau), similar to the Order of Canada. He will be sorely missed.

He was also one of twenty founding members of the DUCA Credit Union in 1954 which made it possible for new immigrants to secure loans.

With his wife, Wilhelmina, he assembled a unique collection of Inuit art for over 50 years in which key works of art have been exhibited publicly over the years. He contributed to the appreciation of Inuit Art in Canada in countless other ways.

He will be remembered for his generous heart, positive outlook on life, and a drive to make any community he touched a better place to live for all.

A heartfelt thank you to all the staff and residents at Clair Hills Retirement Community for the fellowship, compassionate care and kindness shown to Frits.

Private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in spring of 2022. Arrangements are entrusted to the Henry Walser Funeral Home, 507 Frederick Street, Kitchener, 519-749-8467.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of Ontario would be appreciated by the family.
Visit www.henrywalser.com for Frits’ memorial and to post comments and condolences.

It is with deep sadness that the de Boer family announces the passing of our Husband, Brother, Father and Grandfather, Jake de Boer (July 12, 1934 – September 9, 2019).

He died peacefully in Holland Christian Homes, Brampton on the morning of September 9, 2019.

It is with great sadness that we have learned that John Tyl (92)  has passed away peacefully on April 22, 2019 at North York General Hospital.

The  Celebration Of His Life is scheduled for Saturday, May 11, 2019 at R. S. Kane Funeral  Home., 6150 Yonge Street ,North York

1pm Visitation – 2pm Service

The family of our long time NLC member Pieter Koonings, asked us to pass this message along to you. Our thoughts are with Ine and their family.

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of our father Pieter Johannes Koonings on January 12, 2019 at age 92.  He was the beloved husband of Ine Koonings for 68 years.  He is survived by his wife, his loving children and their spouses,  Paul and Melissa. Karin and Brendan, Egon and Belinda, and Thomas and Suzanne.  Pieter was also adoring Opa to Jonnathan, Jennifer, Nikita and her husband Michael, Tamika and Jason, Evie, Vaughan, Hudson and Mallory.  Pieter was born in Surabaya on the island of Java in 1926 and grew up on his father’s sugar plantation before sent for schooling in Haarlem and Hoorn, Holland.  He excelled at math and was a tremendous athlete who played water polo at the national level and practiced boxing.   His studies were interrupted because of the German occupation and Pieter was forced underground, becoming an active member of the Dutch resistance.  After the war, Pieter met his future bride in 1946 in Deventer where he attended the Agricultural College.  They were married in Java in 1950 once Pieter had completed his military service in the Dutch Army as an officer of the Public Relations and Intelligence Service.  The couple lived in Indonesia for a number of years before returning to Holland and eventually immigrating to Canada in 1955. Pieter and Ine founded two successful businesses, most notably Contempo Colour Labs, one of Toronto’s premiere photo finishing laboratories.  They worked side-by-side for decades until their retirement in 1981, when they devoted their life to exploring the world, spending time with family and visiting friends. Most recently Pieter celebrated his 90th birthday in Indonesia with his family. Pieter had a courageous spirit and love of life that fueled his passions and journey through life.  He embraced his latest pastime, cooking, at the young age of 80. To the end, he was the ever curious, compassionate and generous soul that touched many hearts.

Details about a Celebration of Pieter’s Life to follow in due time.

In Memory of Jakob (Jake) Mol 1935 – 2018

More Information about the Service

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Wilhelmina Hermina Begemann

July 12, 1930 – December 07, 2018

HENDRIKS, Benedictus ‘Ben’ Hendriks Obituary

HENDRIKS, Benedictus ‘Ben’ – (President of The Dutch Marines) – Passed away peacefully with his family present, on May 1, 2018 at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital in his 90th year.

Ben, beloved husband of Pauline. Loved father of John and his wife Grace, Rob and his wife Leslie and Bart and his wife Lynda.

Loved Opa of Kiah, Carlos, Benjamin, Troy, Sydney and Alyssa. Dear brother of Peter, Anna, and the late Dick and Corrie.

Visitation at the Kopriva Taylor Community Funeral Home, 64 Lakeshore Road West, Oakville from 2-4 and 7-9 pm Monday, May 7th.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Dominic Catholic Church, 2415 Rebecca Street, Oakville on Tuesday May 8th at 11am followed by cremation.

Special thanks to the Emergency and ICU at OTMH for all their care.

Henk Hoogstraten
Marten Mol
Ada Wynston