VAN DER STAAY, Jettie (Jetty)

Was born the youngest of six, Henriette Josephine Maria Poelmann in Bussum, The Netherlands on January 4, 1933. She passed away in her 86th year. She is predeceased by her parents, Christian and Henriette Poelmann, and siblings Hans, Maria, Ignace, Jos and Frans. She was a young child during World War II and life's experiences shaped her to be a strong, courageous lady who modeled how to find goodness in all of life's moments - never to waste a moment that is given to you, and to show deep appreciation. Jettie, together with her first husband Wolter raised three young people, Shirley (Marc), Lotje (Mike) and Frank (Nook). Oma leaves behind eight incredible grandchildren who will miss her dearly: Eric and Matt (Mondoux), Emma, Megan and Jesse (Hives), Kristopher, Martin and Ben (van der Staay). She will be deeply missed by her partner in love and life, Jiri Zelinka. Jettie will be remembered by extended family and dear friends on both sides of the ocean. Jettie loved everything social, felt appreciative as she enjoyed anything active outdoors, loved to try new things to challenge her thinking and inspire creativity, and jumped into anything that brought her great joy - especially in the sunshine or where music was playing! She thoroughly enjoyed meeting people as an Avon Lady after our family immigrated to Canada, through sports like field hockey, tennis, skiing and sailing, as a passionate entrepreneur, and as a dedicated duplicate bridge player and ballroom dancer. Mom loved life.

Wherever Jettie went, people would remember her friendly demeanor, her sparkle and her radiant smile. Anyone who had the pleasure to meet her felt like they were the most important person in the world when they spoke with her, and she cherished every friendship. When a stroke took her ability to speak, she found ways to communicate with her beautiful eyes. She is irreplaceable and will be missed dearly. We would like to thank her extended family at Nipissing Manor along with Dr. Rogers, for the dedication, care and love that wrapped around Mom in her time in Corbeil.

Our dear Jettie passed peacefully just as the sun was setting on April 20th, 2018. Mom has shown us great courage and grace for a long time. After a life well lived, there is comfort in knowing she is at peace. An intimate family gathering will celebrate Jettie's life.

In Jettie's honour please consider making kind gestures to others on her behalf. It's sure to warm your heart and would be most meaningful to her.

We'll think of Mom, Oma, Jettie whenever the warm sun shines, the beautiful Canadian Fall colours paint our days and we are appreciating the gift of nature - just as she taught us to do.