November 1, 2018
Marianne Dekker, a beloved mother, Oma, sister, aunt and friend passed away in her sleep on Nov. 1, 2018. Her smile and quick wit will be dearly missed by her children (Mark & Rose, Richard & Brenda, Jody & Doug), five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
There will be no service held, as per her wishes: Marianne wanted no crying, only laughter and smiles. Her family would like to thank all of the staff and residents of Maeford place (past and present) for making Marianne's life so rich and giving her so much joy; they cannot be thanked enough.
Marianne grew up impoverished with her large family in Holland, barely surviving the war, yet still managed to be a mischievous youth (there are many stories of practical jokes). She was later married and had her three children who she absolutely adored. She took the great leap of immigrating to Canada with her family in 1965. She was an endless provider of help for her family, never failing to get her hands dirty or work long hours. She was a second home for all of her grandchildren, who could always count on her for a warm hug and a warm dinner. In 2009, after the passing of her husband, Derk, Marianne moved into Maeford Place and began a wonderful new life. At Maeford she found a loving community in which she flourished (and became her mischievous self again). Despite countless hardships, Marianne never stopped being the selfless, caring woman we all loved. Marianne will be brought back to Holland where she was born, to be forever among the ocean breeze and colorful tulips of her favorite place on earth.