MRS. JOHANNA HOFMAN

1923 ~ 2017

REVISED SERVICE DATE AND TIME

Johanna Helena (Hannie) Hofman nee Radius passed away on July 1, 2017 at the age of 93.

Johanna was born in Baarn, The Netherlands on December 2, 1923, experienced a difficult childhood during the scarcities of the depression, and came of age in Holland during the Nazi occupation. She suffered starvation and the needless deaths of relatives, friends and neighbors as they became victims of the war. To add insult to injury, she lost her beloved husband, Harry G. Hofman in 1973, and lived the last 44 years of her life as a widow.

If anyone had justifiable reasons to be angry, bitter, and depressed at the hand life had dealt her, it was Johanna. But that's not how she will be remembered. She rose above circumstances and created meaning and purpose out of setbacks. She'll be remembered for her wonderful smile and as a person full of gratitude, life, and encouragement for others. She focused on what God had given her and trusted that there were good reasons for what she'd lost. She celebrated her family and friends, laughed easily, saw humour in problematic details, and liked making people happy. She loved being the centre of attention during social gatherings, and was quick to share amusing stories, songs, or poetry that resulted in smiles or laughter. She gave hugs freely, influenced others to see the positive in situations, and was quick to pray with and for others. She taught her children and grandchildren the importance of living life intentionally with a Godly and thankful heart. She would be the first to welcome strangers in new situations, and her home was always open and inviting.

Johanna and Harry were extremely grateful to the Canadian veterans who liberated Holland in 1945, and that was largely why they decided to immigrate to Canada with their 4 children in 1957. She loved this country and thoroughly enjoyed the beauty, people and riches this land has to offer. She was an avid photographer and adventurer, and travelled extensively throughout Canada. Her artistic talents were expressed in her photographs, rug hooking, needlework, and exquisite pieces of stained glass. Mom was also an active member of the Pentecostal Church, read her Bible daily, and fully believed in God’s grace and power.

Johanna is survived by her younger brother Henk Radius, and numerous nieces and nephews, among them Marijke Rawie, still residing in Holland. She is also survived by 4 children, 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren: Jan (Diane) of San Diego, Walter (Wendy) and their adult children Marina, Elea and Larissa in Toronto, Carolyn Sutton and her adult son, Matthew (Sarah) in Coalhurst and their kids Paige, Cedar, Adele and Eleanor; Harmen (Rhona) in Creston, BC and their adult children Jenine, Jacob (Lindsay) and their son Harrison.

Johanna is now home with her Heavenly Father. She often said that she lived a good life and was ready for this next adventure in her journey. She is once again made whole of body and sound of mind, (2 Timothy 1:7). Johanna will be greatly missed by family, friends and those whose lives she touched.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday July 19 at 1:30 PM. at Westside Community Church, 480 McMaster Blvd. West, Lethbridge, Alberta.

For those who wish, memorial donations in Johanna’s name may be made to a charity of your choice.