Maria Maartje (Matze) VanderSlikke of Drayton passed away on Tuesday, January 18, 2022, in her 91st year. Beloved wife of John VanderSlikke. Dear mother of Nelly Tempest and husband Charlie of Pelham, and Jack VanderSlikke and wife Heidi of Arthur. Loving grandmother of Chris & Tammy Martin, Rob Martin, James & Willene VanderSlikke, Stephanie & Aaron Smith, and Jessica & Graham Johnston. Cherished Oma to Nathan and Carter Martin, Mark and Owen Martin, Daniel, Cassandra, and Eden VanderSlikke, Abigail, Hanna, and Chloe Smith, and Romario and Emmett Johnston. “Tante Riet” to many nieces and nephews in Canada and Holland, and she will be deeply missed by all. Maria was predeceased by her parents Jacob & Maartje (Oppelaar) Matze, parents-in-law Cornelius & Neeltje VanderSlikke, brothers Kees, Dirk, and Rien, sisters Maria, Lyntje, Aagie, and Jannie, and by her son-in-law Terry Martin. She was born in Hazerswoude, Holland, and married John in Hazerswoude on Valentine’s Day, 1951. They immigrated to Canada soon after, going first to Fertile, Saskatchewan, and finally settling in the Hamilton area. In 1983, they came to Harriston where they lived until a recent move to Drayton. Maria was a devoted member of the Reformed Church and served faithfully in Stoney Creek as well as Harriston. She had a special passion for children’s and women’s ministry, and was active for many years in the leadership of the Reformed Church Women. Maria was a wonderful wife and mother, who adored and was adored by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Those who love her (and there are many!) are left with a lifetime of special memories and a legacy of Christian faith. We have the blessed assurance that Maria is now at home in the presence of her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Visitation was held at Palmerston Christian Reformed Church on Friday, January 21, 2022 from 12:00 noon until the time of the funeral service at 2:00 p.m. Rev. Andrew deGelder officiated. The service was live-streamed and the link is available on the funeral home and church websites. Spring interment in Harriston Cemetery. Memorial donations to Palmerston Christian Reformed Church would be appreciated. Online condolences may be left at www.hardyleefuneralhome.com
