Obituary of Rebecca Teeuwsen

Rebecca Teeuwsen December 23, 1935 - September 2, 2023.

It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our much loved mother, sister, Oma and great Oma. On Saturday September 2 2023 at 12:55 pm, her Lord and savior took her home. She was 87.

Rebecca (Betsie), predeceased by her husband Henk (2020), was born on December 23, 1935 in Anna Paulona North Holland, The Netherlands to Jannetje (Hooimeijer) and Arie Gideon VanEek. Rebecca was the third child of seven. Arie, John (dec.), Sya, Lenie (dec), Jenny (dec.), Marie.

She was a devoted and loving mother to Chris (Rebecca) Teeuwsen, Jeanette (Andy) VanDriel, John (Marlene) Teeuwsen, and Cynthia (Gerry) Vermeer. Loving grandmother to 13 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Loved and remembered by many nieces and nephews as well.

Rebecca and the VanEek family immigrated to Canada in March of 1948. An 11 day journey on the second immigrant ship the Kote Inten. The family first settled in Fenwick Ontario and then moved to St. Catharines. At 15 Rebecca lied about her age to get a job (16 years was the minimum age requirement) at a zipper factory called Lightning Fastener. As members of Maranatha Christian Reformed Church she met her husband-to-be, Johannes Hendrick (Henk) Teeuwsen and they were married April 28, 1956. Rebecca and Henk spent the majority of their married lives on 9th Street Louth where they raised their four children, offered hospitality to many and shared many joys and sorrows. 

In October of 2019 mom moved to Shalom Manor where she received love and care until her last day. 

The funeral service will take place at Covenant Christian Reformed church (278 Parnell Road, St. Catharines) September 6 at 11:30. Friends and family are invited to attend, and offer condolences following the service. (A private interment will take place at St. John’s Cemetery in Jordan Ontario at 10:00am). 

The family would like to thank the staff at Shalom Manor, Lakeview for their care and compassionate support for our mom.

If desired, donations can be made to Shalom Manor or a charity of your choosing. Thank you.