April 25, 1932 - March 22, 2021
Anna (Smits) Bruinsma passed peacefully into glory, March 22, 2021. She was predeceased by her husband John Bruinsma (1988). She is lovingly remembered by her children: John (Diane), Jim (Judy), Ed (Sue), Judy (Jos), Andrew (Grace) and Anna-Marie (Paul). She also leaves behind 19 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren.
Anne was born in Berlikum, Friesland, The Netherlands on April 25, 1932. She was born into a very musical family and had three brothers and two sisters. Anne often toured The Netherlands as a soprano soloist in her youth and also sang at many events in Canada.
She married John in 1954 and immigrated the next day to Canada where they initially settled in New Westminster, BC. Anne was always active in singing in many choirs and musicals. She also loved to watch her boys play hockey and continued this love of watching hockey until the end of her life.
In addition to raising a family she owned and operated a Dutch store and Dutch deli. She later worked with passion and love for the Bethesda Christian Association. Anne was a social woman who enjoyed talking with the many people who crossed her path. She was a courageous, optimistic, fun soul. Anne loved life and life loved Anne; she will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethesda Christian Association. A Memorial Service will be live streamed on Wednesday, April 7 at 11 am at: https://youtu.be/hTu5KKEIfL4