Jannie van Akker passed peacefully into the presence of her Lord on Wednesday February 23rd, 2017. Jannie was born in Nuth, The Netherlands, on October 4th, 1929 to Helena van Sprakelaar and Hendrikus Bijlsma. Jannie married the love of her life, Johannes van Akker, on February 16th, 1951. They welcomed Johanna Helena van Akker into their lives December 1951, and Johannes Henderikus van Akker in December 1952.
Jannie and her family immigrated to Canada in 1958 settling in Victoria, B.C. During her early years in Canada, Jannie lived on various farms and worked at numerous jobs to make ends meet. Eventually they established, and ran their own business.
Jannie and John welcomed Ronald Martin van Akker to their family in August of 1960. Five years later they were blessed when they welcomed Anne Tina van Akker.
Jannie and John moved to the Comox Valley in 1975 making Courtenay their home. Jannie worked as a homemaker, and was actively involved in her church, and various community groups. Jannie had a passion for her family and deep devotion to her friends. She was an avid lover of nature, and enjoyed participating in the Courtenay Gospel Sing-along.
Jannie was blessed with two grand-children, Brian Joshua van Akker, born March 12, 1979, and Kristen Marie van Akker, born December 4th, 1985. Two great-grand children Joshua Raymond van Akker and Faith Marie van Akker. She loved them well.
Despite her shy disposition, Jannie was known as an extremely friendly person; having a compassionate heart. Jannie endured various health issues throughout her life, most recently a protracted battle with lung cancer.
She was preceded by her parents and siblings, husband, Johannes van Akker, and her eldest daughter, Johanna Helena van Akker. She has left a lasting impact on her family and friends, and will be greatly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 1688 McPhee Ave., Courtenay on March 4th, at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations to the BC Cancer Society are appreciated.