Ann DeJong

May 12, 1933 - October 13, 2023

The family of Ann DeJong (nee Hoogendoorn) of Agassiz, is saddened to announce her passing on October 13 at the age of 90.

To say that her family and friends will miss her greatly is an understatement. Ann, a woman of deep faith, was known for her warmth, hospitality, kindness, generosity, her positive words of encouragement, her unconditional love for her family and others, and her indomitable spirit and energy.

Ann was born in The Netherlands on May 12, 1933 to Jan and Jacoba Hoogendoorn. She, along with her family, suffered a great deal During WWII - an experience that shaped her life.

Ann immigrated to British Columbia in 1950 and spent her first few years as a field worker, as a domestic and as a waitress. She met Harry DeJong during those years, marrying him in 1954. They pursued a life as dairy farmers, first on a farm in Deroche clearing 20 acres of virgin timber, then on the farm in Matsqui which is still farmed by her son and grandchildren.

Ann was an eager learner. When she became involved in leadership for Calvinettes (a church group for girls ages 10-16), she felt she needed to improve her speaking skills and joined Toastmasters, where she gained confidence as a public speaker.

After her children started school, she had some free time and learned how to bowl and joined a 5-pin bowling league. She learned how to sew as a young child and expanded these skills through taking quilting courses and creating many beautiful projects for her home and for her children and grandchildren.

Ann enjoyed looking for new recipes for cooking and baking and took cooking classes in creating various ethnic dishes. Many people were blessed with her tasty meals and her delicious baked goods.

Ann spent countless hours in community service supporting Harry in his political career. She was known by many in the community for her ability to read people and situations and to lend her wisdom, support and insights as needed. Throughout her life, Ann trusted in God and leaned on Him for support. Her faith helped her through many difficult times, especially the last few weeks of her life.

Ann was preceded in death by her precious and loving husband Harry, her parents, 6 brothers and a sister.

She is survived by her children Joan LeMahieu (Jim Forster), Colleen Gingerich (Bryan), Ted DeJong (Greta), Valerie Veltkamp (Gerald) and Cameron DeJong (Angela), her grandchildren DJ LeMahieu (Jordan), Denver Gingerich (Naomi Barrettara), Travis Gingerich (Lauren), Tyler DeJong (Stephanie), Jared DeJong (Michelle), Lexi DeJong, Kasi DeJong, Breanna Veltkamp (Ben Dardick), Jonathan Veltkamp and Bronson DeJong, her great grandchildren Leighton LeMahieu, Isabella Gingerich, Jasper Gingerich, Lily DeJong, Willow DeJong, Henry DeJong, Hope DeJong, Eli DeJong, Georgia DeJong and Rylee DeJong.

The family is incredibly grateful for the loving, professional care provided by the staff of Modern Day Home Health Care during the weeks prior to Ann's death. A special thanks to Jane Klody of Cheam Village for her attentive support.

Memorial services for Ann are scheduled for Friday October 20th at 2:30 p.m. at Henderson Funeral Home, 45901 Victoria Avenue, Chilliwack, B.C.