Obituary of HALBERTSMA – Anne-Marie

February 17, 1931 – July 29, 2011 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Anne-Marie, after her battle with cancer on Friday, July 29, 2011 at the age of 80 years. Mom (née van Waegeningh) was born in Breda, the Netherlands and endured years of struggle during World War II helping to take care of her brothers Huub and Wouter, and sisters Connie and Joke, while her father Leo was interned in an occupation prisoner of war camp. After the liberation of Holland, she worked as a translator in The Hague. Later in 1957, she immigrated to Canada, where she wed Henk Halbertsma. They settled in Calgary, with a short interlude in Dawson Creek, where she took on the challenges of living in a new country. Anne-Marie was a dedicated mother to her son Johannes, daughter Claudia and son Friso. She was very active in her children’s education, and encouraged them in their individual pursuits in science, sports and the arts, as well as a love of animals. She will be remembered as a congenial soul, who valued the importance of the classics and culture, but also a good laugh. She cared for her husband Henk until he passed away in 1998, and then established her own independent life. She delighted in her daughter’s marriage to Louis Montpellier. Among her siblings she is survived by her sister Joke. A Celebration of Anne-Marie’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Wednesday, August 17, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alberta SPCA, or the Calgary Humane Society to honour Anne-Marie’s love of animals. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. The family would like to offer many thanks to Janet Bullard of Proactive Health Advisors for her attentive support during Mom’s illness, to Jolene Evans RMT for her compassionate care, and all the very kind staff at Chinook Hospice. In living memory of Anne-Marie Halbertsma, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403)243-8200.