Skip to content

Hilda Degraaf (nee Hinke van der Wal)

January 7, 2019

Z6S0H0U2-20190114160427

December 17, 1935 - January 7, 2019
It is with mixed emotions, mostly sadness, Mom's family says good bye.

Mom and Dad moved their young family from their home in Schagen, Netherlands and settled in the Cowichan Valley in 1962. The family moved to 6 different locations in the Valley and every one was an adventure where Mom made friends and the family flourished. Finally settling in the Somenos region, Mom joined many groups helping with organizing and making sure things worked. Mom really was the glue that held our family and friends close.

Hilda the Hiker was especially proud of her many gardens and had a green thumb rarely seen. Many of her flowers and plants are still flourishing in various yards and in many houses.

Mom is predeceased by her husband Arthur Degraaf, son Raymond, sister Tina, brother Hielke, Wietze, Auntie Hildi. Survived by sons and daughter: Howard (Karey), John (Celine) and Ramona. Sister Jeannie and brother-in- law Tony deGraaf, Auntie Arlene Grandchildren Ajada, Alex, Blake, Bryan, Cameron, Hilary, Jordan, Kathleen, Michael. Great grandchildren Jack, Audrey, Becket, Bennet, and Trace.

We will miss your wise and practical advice, constant support, unconditional approval and love, care packages of wonderful nourishing food, smiling face and wit at the family dinners, and especially your big hugs and kisses. We will remember fondly the chocolate letters at Christmas and how you immediately adopted all the in-laws and our friends as part of your family. We are all better people for having known you.

The family would like to thank the family doctor, Dr Gilbert, and all the staff at Cowichan District Hospital and Cairnsmore Place who helped Mom and were touched by her zest for life.

Condolences may be offered on line at www.sandsduncan.ca

A celebration of life for Mom, and her sister Tina deGraaf, will be held on April 6, 2019 at the Somenos Community Hall 2 to 4 pm.

If you wish to honour Mom's memory you can donate/support Cowichan Valley Basket Society, Heart and Stroke, Arthritis and A.L.S. associations. 
Sands Funeral Chapel Cremation and Reception Centre (Duncan)

Additional Photo(s):

  

Service Details

Celebration of Life
Saturday, April 6, 2019
2:00 PM
Somenos Community Hall, 3248 Cowichan Vly Hwy, Duncan


obits