April 8, 1937 – March 15, 2020
at the age of 82 years
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
Hebrews 13:16
Gerarda (Gerda) Van Der Zweep (previously der Kinderen), born Gerarda Janssen in Venray, Netherlands on April 8, 1937, passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2020 in Salmon Arm, BC, at the age of 82. She is survived by her two daughters, Astrid (Carlo) Eberle and Monique (Texas) Peck, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, as well as her husband Eling (Ed) Van Der Zweep and his children and grandchildren. She is also survived by one brother and two sisters and many nieces and nephews, as well as several close friends, residing in Holland.
Gerda was born the second twin after her brother, Antoon. Their unique bond and rascally adventures as children remained a defining characteristic and the description “rascal” suited her throughout her life. She was always up for anything.
She was an athletic woman in her youth, playing European handball in Holland where she met her first husband, Dili. At the age of 39, she embarked on the greatest adventure of her life, moving from Holland to Prince George, BC, Canada with her husband and two daughters, then aged 14 and 9. Remarkably, they found other Europeans interested in putting together a European handball league and she continued her legacy in the sport, taking the Prince George team to bronze and silver medal victories at the Canadian National Handball Championships in consecutive years.
A year after Dili passed away following a battle with lung cancer in 1996, Gerda moved to Salmon Arm, BC. She instantly fell in love with the community and immersed herself in volunteer activities. Gerda was a “doer”. Whether cooking for the soup kitchen, visiting and volunteering at care homes, working at Church’s Thrift Store, collecting clothing, or knitting and quilting for donation to various organizations, she always had several causes on the go. She prided herself in giving and always led by example.
Gerda was blessed with a second chance at love and at the age of 69, married Ed Van Der Zweep and they shared more than 13 special years together.
She built meaningful friendships throughout her life and after marrying Ed, fostered special bonds with each of his children and grandchildren. To many of his grandchildren, she was simply “Oma” and she filled that role with dedication and intention.
Gerda will be missed by many, in her home community and beyond, by family by birth and family by extension, by organizations she can no longer be a part of and a church family where her absence creates a notable void.
Due to the current situation, a service will not be held at this time. As soon as it is safe to do so, a church service will be arranged and a gathering to share our special memories of Gerda will be held.
Gecondoleerd met jullie grote verlies van een moeder maar vooral een oma voor de kleinkinderen
Wij wensen jullie allen sterkte voor deze zware tijd
Ad en Linda
My heart feels heavy for the family. I was blessed to know Gerda and Ed. Thankyou Gerda for motivating me in my life and allowing me to hold some of your challenges on my shoulder.
Condolences to Monique and Texas and families
Keep your memories close to your hearts so very sorry
My condolences to all of you. As grandchildren of her sister Toos we have met Tante Gerda several times when she was visiting The Netherlands. Always very friendly and interested in our stories and lifes. Great memories! She will be missed!
Lieve Astrid en Monique en familie,
Ook langs deze weg heel veel sterkte gewenst, een lieve tante die altijd betrokken was en ze was zeer bevlogen over haar vrijwilligerswerk, iedereen hier heeft een quilt als herinnering.
Jullie zullen haar enorm gaan missen, ze was enorm trots op haar kinderen, klein en achterkleinkinderen.
Een mensenmens is van ons heengegaan
Astrid I am sorry to hear of your loss. Treasure your memories.
My condolences to Monique, Texas and your family. Your mom sounds amazing Monique, she will be missed..
Astrid
Condolences on the loss of your mother
As always
My condolences to you and your family Astrid. Blessings.
We were lucky to meet Gerda at Astrid’s house where we had lots of dinners, coffees, lunches together. Gerda was a kind, busy and always smiling lady. Rest In Peace Gerda.
Hugs to all family.
One of the most giving person I have ever met She will be missed dearly, along with her wonderful cooking.
Deepest condolences to Gerda’s entire family. She was a kind and caring soul.
Rest peacefully Gerda
We will never forget you.
Love Rob & “Crystal
Astrid’s mom, Gerda, was always one to give a warm welcome and a good strong hug. She was perceptive and questioned a lot (inquisitive). I always enjoyed any time I was able to have with her. Such good memories.
Gerda was a kind soul with an amazing capacity for empathy and listening. Playing cards with her was a treat! Our condolences to all who have loved her.
Martie and Ivan
Nu condoleance d’Or tour loss….
My condoleance for your loss….
It was a privilege to have known Gerda; to have loved her and to be loved by her! Wishing comfort and peace to Astrid, Monique and their families.
A loving, kind, generous and hard working soul has left us. We love her so much.