It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, Oma, and great grandmother, Mary Hendrika Fleuren. With all her children by her side, she died peacefully in St. Martha’s Hospital after a sudden but brief illness.

She was born in Beers, Limburg, in The Netherlands in 1915, the second oldest of seven children. In 1957 she immigrated to Canada with her husband, William, and five young children. They landed at Pier 21 and from there came to Mount Cameron Farm in Antigonish County to start a new life. After several years, the family was able to purchase their own dairy and poultry farm in Upper South River. Mary was totally content in her new country, and never looked back. According to her sister-in-law, "She was the best kind of Canadian immigrant farm wife, dedicated to raising her children and worked hard to contribute to the success of their family farm."

Moeder's pride and joy were her vegetable gardens and house plants. Her hands were never idle and in her spare time she loved to knit, crochet, sew, and do needlepoint. Everyone in her family wore her home-knit socks, scarves, mittens, hats, sweaters, and slippers, and her intricate doilies and tablecloths still cover our tables. She also knit baby clothes and doll outfits for her grandchildren and their dolls. Recipes and meals like boerenkool, koude schotel, and oiliebollen from the old country remain family favourites to this day.

In 1966, Mary and her family proudly became Canadian citizens. After her children grew up, she and her husband retired to Antigonish town where she appreciated being closer to many stores and services. Almost daily, Mary and William could be seen strolling about town to get their exercise, frequently stopping for a coffee and doughnut. They were walking long before it became popular. 

 Her 100th birthday party, held in July, was a true recognition of her hundred years, and her heart was filled with much joy, love and happiness with a special celebration that brought together her many friends and family from near and far, from The Netherlands to the USA.

Mary was a person of great faith and attended mass regularly, right up to the time of her death. Thanks to the support she received from her son, Martin, and other members of her family and community, she was able to remain in her own home right up to the time of her illness. We also thank her special companion, Crystal, the homecare workers, support services, and the staff of St Martha’s Hospital.

After a lifetime of 100 years, Mary has been called home, "Oost, west, thuis best!"