“Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.” Psalm 90:14
Faithfulness, integrity, love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness and gentleness:
Words that describe one who will receive the “Crown of Life” for a life lived well, as a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, sister, auntie and friend.
On Wednesday morning November 22, 2023 our beloved Mom was taken suddenly to be with her Lord and Saviour. Being a life long lover of music and a beautiful singer herself, there is no doubt in our minds that she is now singing for joy with the angels.
Not only does Mom leave an enduring legacy of her steadfast faith but she also leaves the legacy of a large and loving family, her six children, Dorothy/Bill, Rick, Pete/Sheila, Allan/Angela, Yvonne/Paul and Tom/Wendy. She was blessed with 21 adoring grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She was also a loving Auntie to many nieces and nephews and leaves behind her only sister Pearl and brothers, Jim, Bert, Stuart and Klaas along with their wives.
Born in the Netherlands to a family of 9 children, Mom, with her parents and siblings immigrated to Canada in 1949. She was followed by her childhood sweetheart, Allan whom she married in 1953. The years after the immigration were lean and hard but, surrounded by a loving group of fellow immigrants, they not only survived but thrived. They had what the world would say is nothing much, but in their minds, with their faith, family, friends, love and enough food to put on the table, as Mom would say “ We had it all and they were truly some of our happiest times! “
Mom loved children and was content to stay home and happily raise her brood while Dad worked two jobs to establish a life for their family in their new country. Mom was so loving and kind and a lot of fun. She loved meeting people, no one stayed a stranger for long. Our friends loved to spend time at our home, there was always room at the dinner table for one more. As the kids grew older and as they could, Mom and Dad had wonderful times with friends and family travelling through Canada, the States and to some more exotic locations.
Mom never wavered in that winsome childlike faith she had along with that zest for life, she exuded joy. Mom, you are going to be so missed but now you are in your eternal home. Trust that your legacy is well grounded and lives through us. We will do our best to follow in your footsteps.
“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you, I have summoned you by name, you are mine.” (Is 43:1)
Please join us for Mom’s Celebration of Life that will held at 1pm November 29, 2023 at Christ Community Church, 3897 Holland Ave.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
34 Responses
Auntie Louela was such a loving, kind, gentle and sweet soul. I will never forget when I was going through a hard time, as an adult, and she just looked at me, (we hadn’t seen eachother in a long time) with tears in her eyes. Her empathy towards me, though we said nothing, was so strong. I will never forget that. As well as the many memories I have of her growing up. Her stead fast love, smile and faith was apparent to my child self. She will be forever remembered in mine and many others hearts. I’m glad you’re flying free Auntie. Don’t be a stranger. My heart felt condolences as you grieve for your mother/grandmother/sister/auntie. She will be greatly missed.
Stuart and I are so very sad over the passing of Luella. She was such a wonderful sister and friend. We are so happy to have shared so many wonderful times with her when she came for holidays and stayed with us. Those memories are so precious to us both. Our condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed!
Our sincere condolences to the whole family. We loved Auntie Luella and she was always fun to be around. She now rests in the arms of Jesus.
Love, John & Hilda Zylstra (tolsma)
To Rick and all the Tolsma extended Families . Our Sincere Condolences from Luella’s youngest Brother Klaas and Auntie Lorraine .
May God be with you all during this difficult time.
Wishing we could be together at this time.
Sending our love and wishes.
Klaas and Lorraine Polet
Our prayers and condolences go to the entire Tolsma family. Your mother/Beppe was a special woman and will be missed by many. Hold tight to your memories and the assurance that all is now well.
John & Lisa (Tolsma) Snyder
Tante Lu told me that she kept a drawing I made for her as a child. We laughed together because in the portrait I added big, dangling earrings. Her sense of style inspired me. Heartfelt condolences & LOVE!
My sincere condolences with the passing of your dear mother and grandmother!
She is in Heaven, cherish the memories.
God Bless!
Bob Kamerbeek
Your mom was so full of love and kindness. What a legacy you all have! ❤️ I am sorry for your loss and pray that God will bring his comfort.
Love & care,
Andrea & Cliff
So sorry to hear of the passing of Louella. Our sincere condolences Douwe and Jessie Bosma and family
Tom & Wendy and the whole Tolsma family,
Your mom will be missed. She leaves a space that will now be filled with the legacy of stories and memories that will never be forgotten. As she rests now with Jesus for eternity, our prayer is that you would know that one day you will see her again.
Let His comfort be with you today.