July 2, 1936 - June 18, 2021
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Greta Koekkoek, nee Dieleman. She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend to all those whose lives she touched. After courageously battling cancer, Greta returned to her heavenly home on June 18 2021.
Born on July 2 1936 in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, her childhood saw her living through the turmoil of occupation during the 2nd World War. Young Greta witnessed incredible and frightening changes to her world, which shaped the inner strength upon which she would rely in later years.
The family immigrated to Canada when Greta was 12 years old, settling in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It was there she met her life-long partner Bastiaan Koekkoek and they married in 1956. Greta and Bas raised their family on a farm in Dugald, Manitoba and then, in 1980, moved across the country to the Cowichan Valley on beautiful Vancouver Island.
Greta was the beloved mother of Leonard (Diane), Ronald (Wendy), Mary Lynn (Gordon), Paul (Sylvia) and Carol Anne (Jason); and proud grandmother of Sean, Tyler, Tanner, Danielle, Luke, Chy-Ann, Alliyah, and Danton and great granddaughter Anna; and favorite aunt to multiple nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her brothers Dan and Billy.
Greta maintained an immaculately clean house while juggling 5 children, and more often than not lovingly taking in anyone who needed help. Greta had a passion for gardening, keeping beautifully manicured flower and vegetable gardens. Greta also sewed, baked and was an accomplished watercolor artist, all the while making everything look effortless.
Greta was active within her church community and volunteered with the Cowichan Family Life Association, and most recently at the Missions For Bibles Thrift Store. She loved her family, had a strong faith in God and instilled in her children strong values that have served them well. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
A celebration of Greta's life will be held at a later date.
Online condolences may be made at www.hwwallacecbc.com