I’m sharing our sad news that my mom, Joanna (Jo) VanEssen has passed away. She was 99 years old. Her strength and determination were legendary and she raised an awesome family. Her grandkids and great grandchildren absolutely adored her. I will miss her beyond words.

She was born near Apeldoorn in The Netherlands on February 13, 1923. Her family survived WWII as farmers. It was a hard life and they ‘hosted’ German soldiers a number of times: living in the basement while the soldiers slept all over the house. She remembered getting a piece of chocolate from a Canadian soldier as they liberated Holland. First ever taste of chocolate! She and husband, Albert emigrated to Canada with daughters Jeni and Hiedi in 1952. They settled in Prescott and raised son, John and daughter, Wendo as well. They lived there together until Albert’s death in 2005. Jo will be missed by Jeni Dyment (Paul), Hiedi Murray (John), John Van Essen (Brenda) and Wendo Van Essen. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Every summer she would invite them to come stay a week with her. They have cherished memories of those times. They are Peter Dyment (Kirsten), Joanna Dyment-Carrasco (Sheldon), Libby Dyment (Geoff), Sarah Dorbyk (Michael), Claire Murray (Andrew), Alison Murray (Nadeem), Derek Murray (Rachel), John David Murray (Jenna), Amanda Van Essen Renaud (Bryan), and Michael Van Essen (Kim). Her grand children brought great joy to Jo by giving her great grand children! Hudson, Bryer, Elijah, Levi,Dallin, Silas and Avi. Kaiya and Sachi. Gabriel and Brody. Caiden and Adizia. Hunter and Benji and a mystery baby about to be born.

The greatest gift she gave me was time. Back in January she was given a few days to live. I wasn’t ready. She wasn’t ready. The whole family was in turmoil. But she rallied and now I realize I needed all this time to come to terms with the future. I’ve come now to accept, with joy and relief, that she’s passed beyond the struggles of her final days. Mom didn’t want a funeral…she would be appalled at being the centre of attention. We’re having a graveside service at the Blue Church Cemetery in Prescott on Friday July 8. 11am. Everyone is welcome