Obituary of Werkhoven Maria Van

WERKHOVEN Maria, fondly known to all as “Miep”, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2008 with her family at her side. Born in Nijkerk, The Netherlands on November 8, 1923. Mom was predeceased by her loving husband of 50 years, Marinus, in 1998; parents, Wouter and Cornelia Priem; mother and father-in-law, Gerrit and Rijkje van Werkhoven; and a sister, Eef, in the Netherlands. She is survived by her daughter, Corry (Grant) MacWilliam of Swift Current and grandchildren, Nancy (Colin), Karen (Ryan) King and Susan (Brian); her sons: Rieni (Velma) of Edmonton, AB, and grandchildren, Mark and Maureen; and Ralph (Elizabeth), of Lethbridge, AB, and grandchildren, Paul and Melanie. “Oma” Miep is also survived by her great-grandchildren, Alexia and Emily King; as well as a sister, Aly; and numerous nieces and nephews in the Netherlands. Mom met and married Dad in 1947, shortly after the end of the War. In 1953 with two small children, she and Dad left all they knew for a new country, language, and opportunity, under the sponsorship of their good friends, Jan and Bregje Melissen and family of Briercrest. The family finally settled in the Swift Current area in 1957. Dad was an accomplished bricklayer and stonemason, building his home single-handedly, while Mom managed our home with pride and care. Settled into their new life, they added one more son, then together, shaped and molded the character and values of their family. The family wishes to expressly thank Dr. Ibrahim and associates for their endless efforts in the care and comfort of Oma over the years. Ralph and Rieni also wish to thank Corry, Grant, their girls and families for all the extra care and attention given to Mom. The family wishes to thank each and every one of the caregivers and staff at the Prairie Pioneer Lodge for the patient and professional care given to Mom and our families alike over the last 10 years. They were often referred to as Mom’s second family. At Oma’s request, there will be no funeral service. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice. For further information or to sign the family book of condolence please visit our website at parksidefuneralhome.com. Arrangements were entrusted to Parkside Memorial Funeral Home, Swift Current, Saskatchewan.