Nov 3, 1926 - Feb 13, 2018
Passed away February 13th, 2018 at Peace Arch Hospital surrounded by her family.
Martha was born in Zoeterwoude, Netherlands on November 3rd, 1926 to Helena (nee Leonardus) and Johannes Geomans Van Velsen. She grew up on the family dairy farm, attended catholic school, and she excelled in her education. After her graduation she began to work as a family helper, caring for children.
Mom met Adrian De Groot a handsome local farm boy at a community dance in 1950. They courted for 2 years before Adrian headed off to Canada to start a life there farming. For two years they corresponded before they got married and immigrated to Canada. The newlyweds settled in Surrey Center.
In 1957 they bought their first dairy farm in the Hazelmere Valley where they raised their 3 sons, Gerry, John, and Andrew. Martha was a wonderful hard working mother, and raised her children with strong catholic values. In 1986 Adrian and Martha decided to slow down, and passed the farms on to their sons.
Martha got her dream home and Adrian was still able to have a few heifers on their hobby farm. Martha continued living in her own home with the care of her son John and granddaughter Gabrielle till her passing on February 13th, 2018.
She was preceded by her parents, siblings and husband Adrian.
Martha is survived by her sister Nell in the Netherlands. Sons, Gerry (Elizabeth), John, Andrew (Gladys) and her grandchildren Gabrielle, Julian, and Maria.
Prayers to be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church 20676 Fraser Hwy, Langley, Wednesday at 5:30 pm.
Funeral to follow on Thursday at St. Josephs 1:15 pm.