With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear mother Gerda Vanderveen on November 9, 2026 at the age of 92 in Uxbridge On.
Born in Rotterdam, the Netherlands on June 18,1934, Gerda came to Canada in 1953 on the Dutch emigrant ship Groote Beer where she met a handsome young man who was headed to New York City. This young man, Bernard Vanderveen, became the love of her life. They shared 50 years of marriage together, 4 children, 11 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. Sadly Bernard passed away in 2004. A few years later, life brought Bill Brown into her world and they shared laughter and companionship until his passing in 2021.
Of all the moments in her life, having her 4 children was what she treasured the most. Her family was her greatest joy and her proudest accomplishment.
Gerda Geertruida Vanderveen was creative, independent, determined, and caring. She encouraged people to live life with a smile on their face, and always supported those enduring difficult times. She loved the simple pleasures in life, spending time with family, burning fires at the cottage, and enjoying the beauty of Kawagama Lake. These moments brought her happiness and created memories for her family that will be treasured forever.
Thank you to her health care team: Dr. Munn and Dr. D. Doobay in Uxbridge, Ontario Health atHome, and the nurses at Paramed.
And a special thank you to Douglas Crossing where she happily lived her last few years. Everyone there was so thoughtful and kind, and the food was always excellent!
Though she is no longer with us, her laughter and love will live on through us, our families, and everyone fortunate enough to have known her.
