HIEMSTRA, Gerda Hiemstra

Location: DURHAM REGION, ON
Funeral Home: NORTHCUTT ELLIOTT FUNERAL HOME

October 9, 1937 - January 14, 2026

Passed away peacefully at Marigold Hospice, Clarington, on January 14th, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She leaves behind family in the Netherlands, extended family in Ottawa and Port Hope, and many dear friends in her community.

Born in Lemmer to Willem Dam and Trintje Oost, Gerda was the third of seven children in a close-knit family. She was married July 1957, and In 1961 they emigrated to Canada with a very young family. After moving several times adding children along the way, they eventually settled in Enniskillen. It was during her time on the farm in Enniskillen that she developed her lifelong passion for gardening.

Gerda worked as a PSW, a career she truly loved, and returned to the profession with the Red Cross at the age of 50. She was known for her resilience, always picking up the pieces and moving forward through life’s challenges.

An avid knitter, she created 3,500 bears, nearly 1,000 prayer shawls, and countless sweaters for her children and grandchildren. Her faith and her church were her solace; she found time every day to read scripture and pray for those she loved.

We would like to thank everyone who ensured Grace could continue to live independently these past few years. To the staff at Lakeridge Health Bowmanville and Marigold Hospice we appreciate your compassion and care.