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John Velema posted a condolence
Friday, April 18, 2025
Hilda Lorraine Velema, nee Andrews was born on September 30, 1934 in Queensville, Ontario. Her parents were Morley Andrews and Irene Andrews, nee Rose. Hilda is pre-deceased by her husband of more than 46 years Jan Emil Velema.
Hilda was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, friend. She was a rural, country girl, something that never left her. Mom was a faithful Christian who liked to chat about her early life, her beliefs, her values, her family history, past stories, old times, present troubles. She held many morals that are lacking in today’s world, humility, generosity, devotion, simpleness, frugality, forgiveness. Mom was sociable, would talk to anyone, get into deep conversations, without any prior notice. She equally loved all of her children, was proud of each of them, said she “raised six good kids.” Sadly, she grew tired of the daily struggles, who can blame her. She was a strong woman both mentally and physically throughout her life. This helped her to survive surgeries even when the doctors did not think she would. Growing old can only be understood by the aging. Mom was resilient, something else that is missing among most people these days. She lived the life that was put upon her, sometimes struggling, like all of us do. The last time she spoke to Helen, I overheard her say, “I’ve been on a long road, but I’ve made it.” Helen replied, “I’ll see you on the other side.”
Personally, I remember riding my bike, walking her home from the Thomas Williams home, all the way to the Fifth Ave house. I will always remember her apple sauce, canned peaches, pears, baked apples, cabbage rolls, chilli sauce and pickled beets. She grew a peach tree from a peach scrapings and pits, when they struggle to grow in Niagara. She made the best pies, every time, a slice of each, sampled by Kelley. She used to repair socks on a light bulb. I recall, when I was young, slicing my fingers, scraping my knees, bleeding. She fixed me up, told me I would be fine. She is responsible for my high pain tolerance. She was the one that raised me!
The last time I was able to converse with her will always remain with me. She said, “I loved to read, I loved to read.” I said, “I love to read too.” She replied, slowly, “I loved to read, stories about Jesus, when I was a little girl.” I cried, then said, “You are a good Mother and a good Christian.” She said, “Ya.” She …….. went to sleep.
A few years ago, I was out in the sunshine, chopping wood, listening to music. This song played and I immediately called up Mom, blubbering.
“Mother told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
listen closely to what I say
if you do this, it'll help you some day"
take your time, don't live too fast
Troubles will come and they will pass
You'll find a woman and you'll find love
And don't forget, son, there is someone up above"
"Be a simple kind of man
Be something you love and understand
be a simple kind of man
won't you do this for me, son, if you can.”
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John Velema posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 24, 2024
Hilda was a good mother and a good Christian. She handed me down our family history. I now know where the Andrews, Roses, Lepards, Harmans, Peggs and others came from. Mom was a farm girl from another time. She gave me a wonderful compliment just before she died, said I was just like my Opa.
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Harvey and Elaine Rose posted a condolence
Monday, October 16, 2023
Our Sincere condolances to all your family.
Even as Hilda's first cousin we did not know Hilda very well - age and living distance - but heard of her with fondness from other family members.
May you know God's loving arms around you at this sad time,
Harvey and Elaine Rose
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Doug Bonvanie posted a condolence
Monday, October 16, 2023
Hilda Velema was a hospitable, warm and caring person. It was a pleasure to get to know her over the years, especially the past 3 years as her church elder. She cared for her family deeply and prayed for them regularly.
She will be missed.
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Hennie Bonvanie posted a condolence
Monday, October 16, 2023
Very fond of Hilda. Many phone calls and cards were shared. Many good memories of her were made. Blessings and prays are with you.
From Hennie Bonvanie.
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Kathy Gilchrist posted a condolence
Monday, October 16, 2023
On behalf of Scott, Shana, Jeff, Rebecca, Paul & I we extend our deepest condolences for the loss of your Mom/Grandma.
May all your cherished memories bring you comfort in the days ahead.
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Siska DeVries posted a condolence
Monday, October 16, 2023
My sincere condolence with the passing of your mother, grandmother, great grandmother.
Hilda was a special person I enjoyed visiting on several occasions when she still lived in her apartment on Alexandria. She was very proud of her family and would always tell me what they were doing and what they had accomplished.
Her prayers were heartfelt and caring. Blessings, Siska DeVries
A Memorial Tree was planted for Hilda Velema
Saturday, October 14, 2023
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Shawn Jackson Funeral Home Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Jean Galloway posted a condolence
Saturday, October 14, 2023
I will miss our long conversations on the telephone, she was very proud of her children and grandchildren
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The family of Hilda Lorraine Velema uploaded a photo
Friday, October 13, 2023
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