Obituary of Henderina Westelaken

Today we are mourning the passing of our mother Henderina (Rina, Renee) Westelaken (Donkers). She passed away peacefully in her 86th year on December 15 in St. Marys Ontario.In 1951 Mom emigrated from the Netherlands with our grandparents Hubert and Marie Donkers and nine of her cherished siblings. Joining three who had already emigrated and leaving two behind. The Donkers family settled in Camlachie Ontario. Five years later she married our father Chris (died 2005)Our amazing Mom will be remembered for her zest for life. She loved to have a laugh and make friends. She taught us that anything was possible. She earned her high school diploma while her youngest child entered grade one. She studied French, took swimming lessons (even though she was afraid of water) and learned how to skate at 61 years old so she could skate with her grandchildren. She loved to cook, loved to drive and most certainly loved to help out others in times of need. On a social note she never turned down a yummy shot of Advocaat.She is survived by her five children Deb McKay (Bill), Rose-Anne Seccareccia (Robert), Peter (Barb), Paul (Beth), Lisa Passarelli (Vittorio). Grandmother was dearly loved by her grandchildren Christopher, Nicholas and Sarah McKay, Michael, Jordan and Stephen Seccareccia, Carly, Rachel and Ellen Westelaken, Mackenzie, Ryan and Olivia Westelaken, Morgan, Chiara, Giacomo, Livia and Giuseppe Passarelli. Great Grandmother did not get enough precious time to spend with Fox, Addie, Jack and Billy.As adults we will certainly remember her energy, her humour and her strong sense of family.Her grandkids will remember her for her love, her hugs and her homemade chicken soup.Good bye mom you will be deeply missed and forever loved.Many thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Wildwood Nursing Home.At mom’s request there will not be a visitation at this time. Later when conditions permit a celebration of life will be held.Donations in memory of mom can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation