Derenzo, Willemina

WILLEMINA HENDRIKA  DERENZO (nee Schepers) of Lethbridge and formerly of the Crowsnest Pass, beloved wife of the late Louis Derenzo, passed away peacefully at the Chinook Regional Hospital on Thursday, March 28, 2019 at the age of 92 years.

Willy was born in Amersfoort, Holland on June 18th, 1926 to the late Gerard and Marie Schepers. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband Louis Derenzo, and her beloved son, Stephen Derenzo.

Willemina is survived by her daughters Ria (Warren) Cecchini, Kay Derenzo (Doug), Louise Derenzo, Diane (Taco) Hansma, son Tony (Gloria) Derenzo, and daughter Debra Derenzo (Jayson). She is also survived by 22 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family in Holland.

Willemina's fondest childhood memories involved time with her dearest brother Ben Schepers, from Queensland, Australia. Their relationship was so strong even though they lived miles apart. Willemina loved her brother Ben wholeheartedly.

During WWII, Willemina met the love of her life, Louis while he was serving in Holland. Soon after they married, they embarked on a journey to Canada to start their new life together; Willemina was such a beautiful war bride. Together they built a life and a wonderful family. Every grandchild, great-grandchild, and great-great-grandchild was loved by "Grandma Willy", and each one had a special place in her heart. Mark or "my little Peanut" as she called him, was no exception. Mark needed a special kind of love that she was always willing to give. Whenever the grandkids visited grandma's house, there was never shortage of fresh homemade bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, genoa  salami and back tickles.

Willemina or "Willy" had such a zest for life. She was known to her friends and family as being "spunky" and so much fun to be with. Willy was a beautiful lady inside and out, a true angel here on earth. She had an infectious smile and witty sense of humour. Willy touched the lives of everyone she met. She will always be remembered for her caring heart, kind soul, and love for others. Family was extremely important to Willy, and when we all got together she never turned down an opportunity to play spoons or dance in the kitchen.

Willy spent the last few years living at Golden Acres where she had many good friends. She loved the staff that cared for her, and they loved her too. She touched the lives of so many people, and we will all miss her immensely.

To honour Willy's wishes there will be a celebration of her life on Saturday, July 27, 2019 in the Crowsnest Pass for family and close friends. Time and Location to be announced at a later date.