It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Maria (Ria) Theodora Elisabeth Ruygrok (nee van Haaster).
Born on October 21st, 1929 in Naaldwijk, Netherlands Deceased on December 23rd, 2017 in Kamloops, BC
Maria is survived by her loving husband John Ruygrok, her devoted sons Randy (Lorelee) & Jeff (Lucie) and her beautiful grandson Rio.
She also leaves to mourn, her sisters; Leny van Rijn, Beppy (Bert) Schellekens, Joke (Donald) Lambert, Ellie (Peter) Peters and brother; Aad (Wil) van Haaster, sister-in-law’s; Gerrie van Haaster & Toos van Haaster plus many nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
Maria was predeceased by her father and mother; Adrianus & Johanna van Haaster her brothers; Kees, Theo and Koos as well as sister Allegonda van Zon.
Ria & John arrived in Canada in the spring of 1952 where their first home was in Cheamview, BC. From there they moved on to Ashcroft in November of 1952 and finally to Kamloops in the fall of 1953 where they have resided ever since.
Ria started a water company when she was 65 years young and she worked there with her son Jeff until she retired.
She and John enjoyed travelling to Holland to visit family and to many other places in the world. She spent many weekends travelling by trailer; relaxing with family and friends at the cabin on Shuswap Lake. It was also a great joy for them when family members from Holland came to visit Canada.
Her biggest joy was her family, especially the newest member grandson Rio.
Ria was a very strong woman. She overcame colon cancer (twice), a broken hip (twice), and she was on dialysis for the past few years. During all of this she kept a smile on her face and just kept on going.
We would like to thank her family doctor, Dr. Montalbetti as well as all of the caring people and Nephrologist Doctors of the dialysis unit at Royal Inland Hospital and the Northshore unit. They always made her visits as pleasant as possible. We would also like to thank the caring nurses of 6 south and 3 west at Royal Inland Hospital.
The funeral will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday January 6th, 2018 at the Holy Family Parish 2797 Sunset Drive, Kamloops, BC. with Father Fred Weisbeck Celebrant.
In lieu of flowers donations in memory of Ria can be made to the Kamloops Hospice Association 72 Whiteshield Crescent South, Kamloops, BC V2E 2S9 or to the Kidney Foundation of Canada,
BC and Yukon Branch – 200-4940 Canada Way, Burnaby BC V5G 4K6
3 Tributes
John, Randy and Jeff
I am so sorry to learn about Maria’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
John, Randy and Jeff.
I read that your wife and morgen passed away.
Out thoughts are with you.
Marjoleine vd Zijde, dochter van Janet
Ria was always such a warm and loving person. I lived across with street on Douglas St. with my Mother Minnie and Dad Otto Cook… way back in the 1950’s. You both were exceptional neighbors and friends to my parents. Your kindness and thoughtfulness will not be forgotten. My sincerest sympathy to you, John and to your family.