VAN GINKEL (NEE van Deelen), Johanna

Mar. 27, 1926 - Aug. 7, 2020

Born in Amerongen, Holland to Henk and Melisje van Deelen, Johanna was the 2nd oldest of 7 children. Johanna was married to her husband William in 1947 (pre-deceased 1995), immigrating to Canada in 1949, arriving in Halifax, traveling across Canada by train and eventually setting up residence in Cloverdale, where they became well respected poultry farmers. Johanna is survived and will be missed by her four children - Tina (Garry) Vanderveen, Hank (Linda) Van Ginkel, Joanne (Dennis) Hunter and Marilyn (Brian) Cuthbert, 11 grandchildren, 16 greatgrandchildren and one great-greatgrandchild whose names and birthdays she could tell you without referencing any calendar! Johanna cherished her grandchildren, spreading her love equally among them all and was always interested in what was happening in their lives so she could pass on the news. Johanna also leaves behind family in Holland. Johanna was a deeply religious person who was a longstanding member of Willoughby Christian Reformed Church. She very rarely missed a Sunday service up until recently when health issues prevented her from attending. Johanna was known for her weekly fresh baked bread, homemade jam, rickety uncle cake, her well established 10am coffee time and 3pm tea time, and due to her Dutch accent, "shecking the shickens" and making sure all had a warm "yacket" to wear. Being an avid gardener, Johanna took pride in her yearly harvest of delicious homegrown fruits and vegetables that she loved sharing with whomever dropped in for a visit.

Thank you to all of the exceptional staff at Zion Park Manor who provided care and guidance to Johanna and family since Mom moved there in December 2019. Due to COVID, a family-only graveside service at Valley View Cemetery will be held so that Johanna can be laid to rest alongside William.