VAN LEEUWEN, Maria (Mary) Theresia Van Leeuwen passed away peacefully in Hospital, on September 8th, 2021 in her 85th year. Predeceased by her husband Andrew Van Leeuwen (2013). Devoted mother of Wendy Oickle (Wayne), Sandra McDougall (Luc), Audrey Barclay (Todd), Kevin Van Leeuwen (Donna). Loving Grandmother to Chantal (Paul), Brandon (Ashley), Ian (Tasha), Bruce (Stephanie), Sarah, Matthew, and Dylan. Loving sister of Jack DeVreede (Rita), Jan (Janny), Corrie (Hans), Joop (Toos), Kees (Gerda), Bert (Gerda), Hans (Els), and Sjanette (Piet). Mary grew up in the Netherlands in Den Hoorn near Delft and lived through WWII as a young child. She loved gymnastics coaching children for many years and was very involved with the Girl Guide organization while in Holland. She followed her older brother to Canada, marrying Andrew in Holland and emigrating in 1963. They lived in several places until they settled on Charlotte Street where she lived for over 50 years. Mary dedicated her time to raising her four children and taking care of the household. She also made time to participate and volunteer with the Catholic Women’s League including helping organize the annual Dutch Dances at the Parish Hall. She also continued to work with Guiding in Canada and was the Brown Owl of the 24th Niagara Brownies for several years. Mary enjoyed vacationing with family and friends at Sherkston Beach on Lake Erie where they owned a trailer for many years. Mary was an active and competitive card player right up until her passing. She played Klaverjas for many years with the Pioneers Card Club and also enjoyed playing Bridge with several groups. Mary also enjoyed her 30+ years working as an usher at the Shaw Festival. Many thanks to the PSWs at Radiant Care Pleasant Manor, Arbour View who helped her to be more comfortable in these past months. Also, thanks to the LHIN and Palliative Care team for all their support these past few weeks.
Under current pandemic conditions, provincial restrictions limit the number of guests at visitations, funerals and interments. All visitors must wear a face mask and practice physical distancing. Visitation will be held at Morse & Son Funeral Home, 5917 Main Street, Niagara Falls on Sunday, September 12th from 11:30am-1:30pm. Funeral service will follow at the funeral home at 2 o’clock. Relatives and friends who wish to attend the funeral must register online at www.morganfuneral.com. Funeral service will be livestreamed on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/morseandson. Visit thebao.ca or call the funeral home for further information. As an expression of sympathy, those who wish may make a memorial donation to the Niagara Health Foundation.