BERTHA ANN VAN MEEKEREN (RIDDELL)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

BERTHA ANN VAN MEEKEREN (nee RIDDELL) August 25, 1937 - October 16, 2017 Bertha Ann (Berthanne) Van Meekeren passed away on Monday, October 16, 2017 at the age of 80. She spent her last week surrounded by her family, and was comfortable and without suffering when she passed. Berthanne will be remembered as a care giver. In her early years she worked at a senior's home. That sense of kindness and caring extended to everyone she encountered. She was a quiet, soft-spoken woman, but so courageous as she faced more than her share of hardships raising seven children. She also cared for her grandchildren, and that grew to become a daycare which she operated for many years. But her family was her life until the day she passed. Visiting with and talking about her grandchildren and great-grandchildren promised to bring a sweet smile to her face. Other things Berthanne enjoyed were searching for treasures at garage sales with her best friend Gail, or playing cards twice a week with friends from Kirchhoff Gardens. Berthanne was also an amazing cook - she didn't have a lot of money but she managed to take the most basic ingredients and create delicious meals for her family. Her Sunday dinners were something to behold, and her recipes continue to be enjoyed by her family. Berthanne is survived by her beloved children and grandchildren: Rose Smith (Bruce), Joan Laspa (Gary), Sherry Young (Rob), Fred Van Meekeren, Arlene Van Meekeren (Ray), Alan Van Meekeren (Mary Grace), David Van Meekeren (Tanya), 11 grandchildren who loved her very much, and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Jim Riddell, and sister Marion Clifford. She was predeceased by her brother Bill Riddell. "O Lamb of God, I come! I come!"

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 21, 2017