Willemina 'Wilma' Van Reede

Wilma was born on January 26, 1937 in Nijkerk, Gelderland the Netherlands.  She was the second of seven children.  Jane, deceased, was the oldest followed by Wilma, Dick (Corry), Joan (John, deceased), Henry (Lynn, deceased), Frances (Joe, deceased), Judy (Hallad, deceased)

The Van Reede family immigrated to Canada in 1955 and settled in West Edmonton where Opa resumed his baking career.

Wilma was married in 1958 and was blessed with 5 children.  Tim (Wanda), Henry (Anita), Anthony (Carrie), Mary (Dave), and Peter – who was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident in 1984.

Between the homestead at Blueberry Mountain and living in Edmonton, the years took their toll and in 1977 Wilma and her husband parted ways.

Wilma resumed her life in Edmonton and took a number of courses at NAIT and the Alberta Vocational Center to prepare for life as a single Mom.  She soon began her career as a professional seamstress, turning her hobby into a vocation.  She spent the next 30 years working at 2 bridal salons doing alterations, adjustments and custom fabricating.

In her spare time, she was always sewing, knitting or crocheting. She had no patience for idle hands.  Her children, grandchildren and even great grandchildren all benefited from her skills and talents and love of textiles.  She offered her gifts to many in her communities, blessing others with her generosity and servant heart over the years.

She also loved to bake and sing.  She was always singing or humming as she worked, and many have enjoyed her raisin bread over the years.  Her voice was a gift that she wanted to bless others with as well.  Whether in song or words of encouragement. 

All of her generosity and acts of service stemmed from her sure and certain knowledge that she belonged to her faithful Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Her faith was the central part of her being.  She served others out of a sense of love and obedience because of who she belonged to and His love for all mankind.

In 2016, Wilma moved to Lacombe to be closer to Henry and Anita and their family.  Shortly after her move she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.  She lived the last 2 ½ years in Royal Oak in the special Memory Care Cottage. 

Wilma was called to her eternal home on January 24, two days before her 88th birthday.   She leaves behind 4 children and their families with 14 grandchildren and even more great grandchildren.  She is also survived by 2 brothers, 3 sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Bethel Christian Reformed Church.   5704 – 51st Ave.   Lacombe, AB. 

Livestreaming of the service can be found with the following link: https://www.youtube.com/@bethelcrclacombe9772

If friends desire, memorial donations may be made to Rehoboth Christian Ministries, 3920-49 Avenue, Stony Plain, AB, T7Z 2J7

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