Obituary of Treeske Johanna Maria Holtkamp

HOLTKAMP - Treeske Holtkamp beloved wife of the late Ben Holtakmp of Yorkton passed away on Tuesday, September 22, 2015. Theresia Johanna Maria Willems was born to Johannes and Josephina (nee Beckers) Willems in Maastricht, Nederland on May 12, 1924, the second youngest of nine children. Treeske was a loving Mother, Oma, Great-Oma, sister and friend. Her eleven children survive her: Hans (Lorna), Robbie, Olga (Tom), Eric (Pat), Frank, Monique (Glen), Brenda, Paul (Yvonne), Alphonse, Tony, Theresa (Brent), twenty-six grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren and a great-great grandchild is on the way. Treeske was predeceased by her daughter Angelique (1987), her husband Ben (1998), and her sisters, Fif deGrood, Mia Lehto and Hannie Willems, her brothers, Harrie, Pere Rev. Servais.O.P., Willie, Lambert and Karel. She met Ben Holtkamp early during WWII, however left for nurses training with the Red Cross. They reconnected after the war and she found stability and comfort in Ben's friendship. Together they dedicated their life to each other in marriage on May 24, 1946. Treeske and Ben immigrated to Canada in 1952 with four children, making Yorkton, Saskatchewan their new home. Treeske was Oma to everyone. She had an adventurous and youthful spirit that was contagious and always lively. She would often be found running, skipping or jumping. She had energy galore and possessed a deep love for life. Singing was an integral part of her life; she could be found singing anywhere, anytime. She sang in the church choir for many years. Her life decisions were not ruled by fear, rather she willingly embraced the challenges she faced and was eager to try new things. She even began texting in her last years in order to keep in close contact with friends and family everywhere. Maintaining and fostering loving relationships was of greatest importance to her. Oma was dedicated and committed to helping wherever and with whomever she could. She was actively involved in her local community and cared for the global community through her charitable outreach. She held special compassion for children in need. Even though she had a large family, she had room in her heart to foster children and there was always space for yet another child around the table or in the home. Her generous compassion overflowed to all people in every situation. Oma's hobbies included collection of butterflies and insects instilling in others love, and appreciation for creation. Fashioning beautiful things was a passion and love for her as she spent many hours sewing and knitting. Many were kept warm with knit afghans, socks and mittens. Oma mentored many people, young and old. Through both word and deed, she role modeled social justice, outreach, service to others and women's equality. Oma has been a light, offering inspiration and guidance to countless people. She enthusiastically lived her faith in all she did and gave others the courage to find and follow their faith journey. Her abundant love for people is evident in her relationships and lovingly articulated in her many journals. She had a great passion for nature and shared that with her family and friends. She shared her love for Holland with everyone and returned often to connect with family and friends. She was eager to make new friends and stay connected with old ones. Oma made a difference in the lives of so many and the world is a better place because of the gift of her life. Prayer Vigil was held on Thursday, September 24, 2015 at St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Francis Hengen officiating. Granddaughter, Rachel Cossette and family friend, Rick Yaholnitsky shared tributes and words of remembrance. Funeral Mass was celebrated Friday, September 25, 2015 from St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church with Rev. Francis Hengen as the Celebrant. Granddaughter, Taylour Ringdal served as the crossbearer. Pianist, Lorraine Lysak with members of the parish choir led the congregation in the singing of the hymns Psalm 138, How Can I Keep From Singing, Blest Are They, God Is Alive, Song of the Angels and Lift High The Cross. Granddaughters, Lisa Strelau and Karlie Hnidey served as lectors. Prayers of the faithful were read by Pastor Fred Schneider. Interment followed in the Yorkton City Cemetery with Treeske's children serving as casket bearers. Memorials honouring Treeske's life may be made to a charity for children in need or to the Canadian Red Cross as gifts of remembrance. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.baileysfuneralhome.com Service Information Thursday, September 24th, 2015 7:00pm, St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church Friday, September 25th, 2015 10:00am, St. Gerard's Roman Catholic Church Interment Details Yorkton City Cemetery