Sytske passed away peacefully after more than 103 years of a life well lived. Born in Holland, the daughter of Teaka and Grietja Brandsma, she came to Canada at the age of 6. As a young adult, she taught school then joined the war effort during WWII with the Dutch Army and was stationed in the Pacific Theatre. While posted in Australia she met her husband, Oscar. After the war they returned to Holland and then to Canada in 1949. They settled in Rockwood in 1954 where they raised their family and remained. Sytske was a proud Veteran and was honoured to participate in Remembrance Day Services. She was very involved in the community as an activist, identifying and addressing needs. She was recognized for her work as a newspaper correspondent for the Eramosa News. She was a member of the Lioness Club and participated in community theatre. She enjoyed creating art, drawing, writing poetry and letters to the editor. She corresponded with many friends and family members all over the world. She was active in her church and shared her faith through Christian Evangelism Fellowship, teaching bible school well in her nineties. Her strong Christian faith never faltered and supported her throughout her life. Predeceased by her husband Oscar, daughter Marjan, daughter-in-law Lesley and sister Antji. She is survived by her sons Cary (Rhae), Rudy (Debra), Robin (Aurora), Rick (Homerya), Philip (Shirley) and daughters-in-law Myra and Teresa. She enjoyed nine grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Dublin Chapel 252 Dublin Street North, Guelph. A Private Family internment will take place. A Celebration of Sytske’s Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of cards and flowers, donations to Operation Smile or to The Royal Canadian Legion would be appreciated. Donations can be made in person at the funeral home or online at www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com.
Her light shines on through all of us who knew her.