1926-2020 - Peacefully passed away at home on Saturday, May 16, 2020 at the age of 93 with her family by her side.
Wife of the late Herman van der Meiden. Mother of Fim Comeau (Howard), Henriette Gilbertson (Greg) and Herman van der Meiden. Beppe of Rebecca Comeau (Graeme), Kyle Comeau (Sarah) Laura Comeau (Orland) Renee Lytham (Mark), Samuel Gilbertson (Chantal), Joe Gilbertson (Jessica) and Jewel Leggott. Beppe Roel to Blake, Emmett and Essie Comeau, Russ and Ella Lytham, Nash Gilbertson, Drew and Greg Gilbertson. Daughter of the late Wiebe and Fim de Boer. Sister of Jannie Gielink (late Jan), late Dooitzen (Marie), late Auke (Geertje). Aunt to many nieces and nephews all of the Netherlands. She will also be missed by her friends and ‘The Dutch Bunch’
Roel was born in the Netherlands and served in the Royal Dutch Navy at the rank of Corporal as a legal secretary. While stationed in Indonesia, she met her husband. They later emigrated to Canada.
Because of her interest in History, she volunteered at Battlefield House in Stoney Creek which later turned into a job. While there she learned to cook over an indoor fireplace with a reflector oven and planted herbs. She also carded, dyed (with natural dyes) and spun wool which she then knitted into various articles of clothing. She became an interpreter for the groups that toured Battlefield House and sewed many of the costumes that were used there. She worked until she was 72.
The family would like to extend many thanks to Carole, Chantal, Janine and the caregivers from Bayshore; with a very special thank you to our excellent nurse Amy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Arthur Funeral Home - Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522). Memorial donations to Parkinson Canada (payable by cheque or online) would be appreciated. Please visit Arthur Funeral Home website obituaries to leave memories and condolences as a keepsake for the family.