April 18, 2020
1940-2020 ~ May passed away on April 18 due to respiratory complications. Beloved sister of Rose Bee (Jim); dedicated mother to Murray Abma (Carol), Marilyn Loewen (Stan) and Jennifer Abma (Kyle Burns); mother-in-law to Debbie (Les); and doting grandmother. She joins her late husband, Hans Abma, and her parents.
May's life of service began in Sarnia, ON, where she grew up and started her nursing career at Sarnia General. At age 21, her independent spirit took her to study at Moody Bible Inst. in Chicago for three years. Then in 1964, she and Hans married and over many years served in church communities in Ontario.
In 1992, she and Hans migrated to Abbotsford, BC where she continued her well-loved nursing career in Peds/Maternity wards at MSA Hospital. On weekday mornings, she could be found playing tennis, or enjoying time with her grandchildren at the park, taking them for bike rides, playing Scrabble, and sharing the peppermints that could always be found in her purse. She also spent her life looking out for those in need, opening up her home, and her dinner table -- sharing her baking, especially her sour cream apple pies.
Mom's presence was always a warm, open invitation, and her positive disposition enabled her to journey life's curveballs with grace. Despite the challenge of dementia, she maintained a sense of humour with her witty one-liners. Her eyes still sparkled in the presence of her grandchildren, and lyrics from old hymns could be teased out of her with joyful singing. Mom's faith in Jesus was the foundation upon which she built her life, and now her anticipated hope is her reality.
The family is deeply grateful for the love and support of Ellen Casali, Sara Harms and to the care team at Tabor Home. Donations can be made to Gideons.
To view the full obit and share condolences: https://www.wiebeandjeskefh.com/obituary/catherine-abma/
Wiebe & Jeske Burial & Cremation Care Providers