Obituary of Hendrika "Riek" Van Lieshout

Hendrika “Riek” Van Lieshout

Passed away peacefully at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital on April 17, 2024, Hendrika “Riek” Van Lieshout (nee Raaymakers) passed away in her 100th year. Riek was the loving wife of the late John Van Lieshout (1998). She was the Cherished mom of Harry (Monique), Mary (Davis), Pete (Mary), John (Wendy), and Hedy (Arnold). She was the beloved Oma of Mark (Bridget), John (Crystal), Michael (Erin), Lisa (Kevin), Steven (Rachel), Derek, Sara (P.K.), Greg (Michelle), Paul (Dayna), and Tara (Ryan). Riek will be missed dearly by her 21 great-grandchildren. Riek was predeceased by her two grandchildren John (1995) and Susan (1997). She was also predeceased by her six siblings and is survived by her sister Mien and brother Jan. Riek will be missed by her many nieces, nephews, and extended family in Netherlands.

Mom was the second eldest of nine. She was born in Eindhoven, Netherlands in 1924. Mom and dad immigrated to Canada in 1952. Upon coming to Canada, they became life-long residents of the Watford area where they would raise their family. Mom worked as a homemaker, and always made sure that her children were well taken care of. In her spare time, mom loved playing cards and walking all around Watford and she continued to walk around Brookeside up until just days before she passed away. She loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who she loved dearly.

A private funeral service will take place with interment at Our Lady Help of Christians Roman Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children’s Hospital of London.