Obituary of Elsje Maria Magdalena HAPPEL

June 7, 1942 – Malang, Indonesia
May 20, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

With great sadness we announce the unexpected passing of Elsje Happel on the morning of Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at the age of 77.

Elsje was young at heart with an enthusiastic spirit and passion for life, friends and family. ‘We are family’ is what Elsje lived by. Elsje was born June 7, 1942 in Malang, Indonesia during WWII and immigrated to Canada in 1967. She excelled as a teacher and after getting her Master in Education from Gonzaga University, became a principal for many years where she gained lifelong friends and colleagues. When life was tough and you needed advice, Elsje always had time and words to help put things into perspective and even provide a good laugh. Elsje will be greatly missed by all…

Elsje is survived by her daughter Erane (Hugh), son Jeff(Lea), first husband Wim van Blommestein, sister Tina and brother Robert, as well as extended family and many friends. She was so proud of her grandchildren, Christine, Maren, CJ, Jacob, William, Jack, Nicole, Laura, Cassie and Logan. She was predeceased by her husband John Thorpe.

A Celebration of Elsje’s Life will be held on a date to be announced in the following months. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Elsje’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Elsje Happel, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis and Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.