DEKENS

With heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, JOHANNA JANTINA DEKENS. Johanna went to be with her Lord and Saviour on December 29, 2016 at the age of 88 years.

Johanna de Boer was born in Groningen, Netherlands, on March 4, 1928, the first of 5 children. After struggling through the war years, she joined her fiance Louis Dekens in Lacombe, Alberta, where they were married in 1951. They began their lives together as dairy farmers in Rocky Mountain House, where all 8 of their children were born. Despite his appreciation for farming, Johanna's husband Louis felt called to be a pastor. Trusting God, the family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where Louis began 7 years of studies.

Although moving came with many challenges, Johanna loved the stimulating academic environment and the ethnically diverse community. In 1969, the family moved to serve the Port Alberni CRC community. They accepted their next call to Granum, Alberta, in 1974. In both communities, she was a supportive pastor's wife, forming many long-lasting friendships. Tragically, on June 17, 1978, Louis passed away. With a broken heart, Joahnna moved to Lethbridge to be closer to her children. Throughout her grief, she continued to speak of God's goodness and provision in her life. She began to build a life without her husband; her identity and role as a pastor's wife shifted. With time, she became involved in prayer ministry, Coffee Break Bible Study, and prison ministry. Johanna developed strong relationships with the inmates while working in the prison ministry, caring for them long past her time as a volunteer. Johanna's heart for people was witnessed as she formed friendships with many in the community. She listened to their stories, encouraging them along the way with her prayers and simple acts of kindness.

Johanna modeled a thankful spirit. The smallest of things excited her. When driving with family members, she was an engaged and appreciative traveler. She delighted in the scenery, the company, and the frequent treat stops. Her personal exuberance showed up often. Once, during a power outage, her son-in-law played a few songs on the accordion in the dark. This personal concert thrilled her as she clapped and sang along. Johanna was easily excited and effortlessly grateful throughout her life.

As a mom, she was very giving, loving, and accepting. She was an affirming mother who cheered each of her children on from childhood into adulthood. Our souls smile as we remember nestling on the couch with Mom as she patiently listened to us learn to read. Not only did she listen to us read as young children, she was eager to truly listen to us with her understanding and accepting heart throughout our lives. Her perceptive abilities allowed her to speak wisely into the lives of her children. She encouraged her kids to nurture their relationship with Jesus and with each other.

Throughout her life, Johanna took great joy in being a mom and an oma. She was committed to getting to know her grandchildren as deeply as she knew her children. Her playfulness, light-hearted humour, listening ear, and accepting nature allowed her to connect with her grandchildren in unique ways. Her grandchildren often recall stories of her ability to flash a knowing smile, an understanding look, and an " it's our little secret" wink. Johanna was tireless in her prayers for many, but especially for her grandchildren. She tried to stay attuned to their needs and joys. Her grandchildren loved her for her jovial spirit and her steadfast faith. She taught her grandchildren the importance of sharing their stories, encouraging them to write and enjoy literature.

Johanna had a heart for the marginalized and cared deeply for those who were persecuted globally. She was passionate about international current issues and about God's work in the church. For her life and legacy, we are grateful and blessed.

Her children: Peter (Dora Schievink) Dekens, Jacob (Joanne) Dekens, Anne (Frank) deWalle, Neal (Peggy) Dekens, Randy( Lynda) Dekens, Janice (Ed) Kostelyk, Mark (Lois) Dekens.

Her grandchildren: Tammy (Jason), Clifford, Louise (Gary), Maria (Kris), Jantina (Doug), Jaclyn (Tyler), Trisha (Steve), Samuel (Saara), Joanna (Paolo), Alyson (Jordan), Anthony ( Elaine), Norman (Kristy), Jordan (Kendra), Eric (Jaclyn), Joey (EunJoo), James (Ashley), Katy, Betsy (Matthew), Rachelle (Jesse), Jake (Margaret), Janna (Riley), David (Marit), Jacob, Caleb (Alecia), Micah, David, Lily.
Her predeceased family: Spouse, Louis Dekens; Infant daughter, Anne Janet; Brothers, John de Boer, Reinder de Boer; Sister, Janny Wierstra; Daughters-In- Law, Nellie Dekens and Greta Dekens; Grandson, Timothy Dekens; Great Grandson, Cayden Dekens.

A Visitation will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME - 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, January 2, 2016 from 6:00 P.m. - 8:00 P.M.

A Memorial Service will be held at MARANATHA CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH - 260 McGill Blvd West on Tuesday, January 3, 2016 at 1:00 P.M. with pastor Tony Mann officiating.

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com