It is with such deep sadness that the de Groot family announces the passing of our much loved, Arwa de Groot on Tuesday, April 12th, 2022. She will be deeply missed by her dedicated and devoted partner Ivan, her twins Hayden and Sidney who she loved so very much, her father Martin with whom she shared a special bond, and her mother Ineke whose passion and creativity shone through Arwa.Also survived by her brothers Egbert (& Adrienne), Norman (& Annette), and sister Elske (& Maurice). Loving ‘Auntie Arwa’ to Acker. Arwa will also be missed by Lauryn & Jacob, Susan & Lauren, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, family, friends and colleagues here in Canada and abroad. We will remember through our tears and heartbreak, her strength, humour, patience, creativity, and those amazing tight hugs. She was such a beautiful, caring person, who faced the challenges in her life with much courage. Arwa loved her cows immensely. Over the last 10 years she took great pride in seeing the herd grow and evolve as Herds Manager at the family dairy farm – Mapleton’s Organic. Her affinity and connection with animals and creatures was such a big part of her life. It led to many interesting adventures including raising a lamb, Georgia, in her house with a diaper who grew up thinking she was a dog, and buying baby clothes for goats to keep them warm in the winter. She was a strong advocate for organic and sustainable farming through her work at the farm and as a Board Member with the National Farmers Union. Her influence spans the globe as a mentor for many farm interns over the years.
One more day,
One more time
One more sunset,
maybe I’d be satisfied
But then again, I know what it would do
Leave me wishing still for one more day with you
(Diamond Rio song)
Donations to the National Farmer’s Union – Ontario (NFU-O) in honour of Arwa would be appreciated by the family (or a charity of your choice). Funds received by NFU-O in honour of Arwa will be used to support women in farming and young farmers – two areas of special interest to her. Please visit here to make a donation. https://national-farmers-union-ontario.square.site/product/memorial-donations-arwa-de-groot/17
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Arwa’s life at the family farm – Mapleton’s Organic – on Wednesday, April 20th from 3pm to 6pm. A celebration service will be held at 3:30pm followed by refreshments. (Address 8548 Wellington Road 7 RR 1 Moorefield, ON – between Rothsay and Teviotdale.) The family asks that you RSVP by e-mailing degrootfam8548@gmail.com. (This will be a tented outdoor event – rain or shine, so we welcome you to come dressed comfortably and warmly, with footwear that can handle a bit of mud.) *If you are unable to attend but would like to send along a memory of Arwa, or message of support to the family to degrootfam8548@gmail.com that would also be very much appreciated. A private family Interment will be held at a separate time.