VERBRAEKEN, Sophia Maria (née Grootscholten). It is with overwhelming sadness that we announce the passing of the matriarch of our family on Sunday, November 24, 2024, just shy of her 83rd birthday. Sophia passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer. She is now reunited with her loving husband of 53 years, William “Bill” (2015).
Sophia was an amazing mother to Ron (Carrie), Brigitta (Dave), Sylvia (Mike), and Wernher (Josephine), and a proud Oma to Sean (Amber), Nicole (Jason), Danielle (Juan), Rachel (Greg), Adam (Tierney), Jacob, Katerina, and Nathan. She was a cherished Great Oma to Cheyleigh, Sophia, William, Harper, Dylan, Angelina, Luciana, Joshua, and Cleo. Sophia will also be dearly missed by her large family and friends in both the Netherlands and Canada.
Known for her loving nature, sense of humor, and “Oma’s Yummy Soup,” Sophia leaves a legacy of warmth, kindness, and countless fond memories. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Joe’s and St. Catharines General for their excellent care.
In accordance with Sophia’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A visitation will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the George Darte Funeral Home, 585 Carlton St., St. Catharines, ON, followed by a Celebration of Life at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home ceremony room. Guests are invited to join the reception afterwards.
Memorial donations in Sophia’s honor may be made to the Canadian Lung Association. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the Celebration of Life is available at the following link.
