It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Francisca (Frances) Rynaldina Hogenbirk (nee Mersel) on December 19, 2025, one week shy of her 96th birthday. Predeceased by her husband Jan, daughter Nancy, son Tom (Suzanne Emdin), brothers Mathias (Isabel, predeceased), Peter (Dorothy, predeceased), sister Anne, and her mother and father, Reynaldina and Mathias Mersel. Frances is survived by her sister Pauline McGregor, son John (Diane), daughter Barbara (Duncan), grandchildren Dave (Kayla), Sarah (Gana), Eric, Ian (Kavya), Michael (Amelie), and Matthew, by her great-grandson Hari as well as by many nieces and nephews. Mom was a loving homemaker who lived for her family and was deeply loved in turn. Mom was a long serving member of Trinity United Church in Acton, Ontario. In her senior years, Mom found time for herself and greatly enjoyed playing golf and bid euchre, volunteering in the community, helping with church activities, and voyaging around the world on numerous cruises with family and friends. As per her wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes scattered to join those of her beloved husband. A celebration of life ceremony will occur later in 2026. Our thanks to staff at Leaside Retirement Home and Michael Garron Hospital for the care that they extended to our mother. We also thank our cousins Alison and Karen McGregor, who helped immensely over the past year as did Gary and Judith Bannon. Our most sincere thanks to Gary and Gen Leslie, longtime friends and neighbours. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in mom’s name to Michael Garron Hospital, Acton Food Bank, or any charity of your choosing.
