GEBBINA LOENEN (nee Buikema)
Gebbina passed into glory on Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at the age of 73, with several family members at her side.
She was predeceased by her daughter, Joyce in 1978 and brother Bill in 2007. She is survived: by her loving family, husband Ed, children Roger, Nora, Mark, daughter-in-law Shawna Van Hove, grandchildren Courtney and Camille. Her siblings Grace Gytenbeek, Anita de Water, Aafke Colyn, Cor Buikema and John Buikema and her large extended family.
Ed and Gebbina had a dream that their handicapped, eldest daughter, Joyce, would be cared for in a Christian setting. In 1971, Ed and Gebbina, together with 12 other Christians, established "Bethesda" - the Christian Association for People with Disabilities. Gebbina worked quietly behind the scenes, and often gave wise advice. Soon, 'Saturday Relief' and 'Sunday School' were developed as well as several Summer programs. With those developments, Gebbina was more able to focus her energies on the rest of her family. She loved being a home- maker, playing table games with her children and was happiest being in service to others. In later years, she continued working with disabled people in Special Education classes and with the 'Friendship Ministry". In all, Gebbina gave 40 years of service for People with Disabilities until she became ill. A Memorial Service will be held January 17, 2011 @ 2 p.m. at Trinity Christian Reformed Church, 3215 Trethewey Street, Abbotsford, B.C. A graveside service will be held for immediate family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Bethesda ChristianAssociation (www.bethesdabc.com or 105, 2975 Gladwin Rd, Abbotsford, BC V2T 5T4) and Christine Morrison Hospice (www.missionhospice.bc.ca or 7311 James Street - Suite E, Mission, BC V2V 3V5)