HEIMSTRA, Barbara Hiemstra -
JULY 17, 1934 – JULY 10, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother Barbara Hiemstra at Taunton Mills on July 10, 2024, just before her 90th birthday.
Mom was born on July 17th, 1934, in Tzummarum, Friesland, The Netherlands and immigrated to Canada with her family in 1949.
Being the oldest of four children, speaking some English, and being a “born leader”, she was often in charge of organizing her family’s affairs. This skill led to many meaningful occupations she held in public service organizations over the years.
Our parents met in Canada in the early 50’s and married on July 18, 1953. Together they were a team that focussed on building a loving, successful and values-driven family life. Married for over 70 years, we thrived on their love for each other and us throughout our lives. Besides being an organizer, Mom was smart, conscientious, outgoing, disciplined, adventuresome and creative. She instilled an appreciation for being good citizens and encouraged us to pursue both life-long learning and social development causes.
Mom began her career in banking but soon moved to community service organizations. For many years, she was the Program Director of the Oshawa YWCA, then Executive Director of Durham Save-a-Heart and finally Executive Director of Durham Hospice. She was an active volunteer with several organizations and received the 125-year Confederation medal for community service in 1992 and the Woman of Distinction award in 1996. Being athletic, Mom enjoyed swimming, curling, tennis, skiing and spending time at the cottage.
Mom is pre-deceased by her husband Harold (passed Apr 22, 2024) and is survived by daughters Yvonne Hiemstra (Michael), and Joanne Brown (nee Hiemstra), granddaughter Kayla (Anthony), and great granddaughters Sabrina, Leighton and KoraLynn. In her deteriorating condition from Alzheimer’s, she has gradually left us over the last five years. She has now taken the final step in her journey which leaves a huge hole in our hearts.
The Celebration of Mom’s life will take place at OSHAWA FUNERAL HOME, 847 King Street West, Oshawa, on Monday August 12, 2024 with visitation beginning at 12:30 pm until time of service in the chapel at 1:30 pm. Interment to take place at a later date at Foster Memorial Cemetery, Leaskdale.
We would like to specially thank the compassionate staff who cared for Mom on the Claremont wing of Taunton Mills. In lieu of flowers, Mom has kindly requested that a donation be made to the Oshawa YWCA https://ywcadurham.org/services/wish-shelter/ or Alzheimer’s of Durham Region https://alzheimer.ca/durham/en.
