February 23, 1948 - February 24, 2019
After a very brief but courageous battle with cancer, Selma passed away with dignity and peacefulness on 24 February 2019, surrounded by loved ones.
Born to Jan and Ilse de Haas on 23 February 1948 in Hillegom, Holland, her family immigrated to Canada, arriving in Halifax on 1 April 1952. Although her early years were spent in Vancouver, BC, her sense of adventure soon saw her travelling and taking in all the world has to offer, including time spent living in Australia. Selma and her husband Tom retired in Courtenay, BC where they quickly became dedicated and very active members of the Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community.
Selma was always extremely fit with plenty of energy and she was persistent at motivating those she loved to join her in maintaining good health. Selma had a kind heart, a radiant soul and a terrific sense of humour. She was the epitome of joy, with an infectious smile and firecracker personality far surpassing her physical stature.
Rarely does one person touch the lives of so many, leaving numerous enduring friendships and so many special memories. Daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, wife, lover and friend, she will be forever missed but never forgotten. She enriched the lives of all who knew her.
Selma is predeceased by her parents and older brother Wiebe. She leaves behind her adoring husband Tom; her daughters Karen (Bobby) and Jayme (Jeff); her brother John (Carol); her nephew and nieces Robbie, Kristen and Michelle; her grandson Silas; as well as her stepdaughters Gwen and Victoria (Christian) and grandson Drake.
Many thanks to all those fantastic people who provided support and encouragement to Selma in her final days, especially the staff of the North island Hospital Comox Valley.
A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held from 1 to 4 pm on 24 April 2019 at the Crown Isle Resort, 399 Clubhouse Drive, Courtenay, BC. Donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be much appreciated.