Heeman's announced the passing of Susan Heeman:
"Susan is waltzing in Heaven after being called for a special date with her Valentine. On February 13th, in her 83rd year gracing this world, Susan Heeman left us peacefully surrounded by family at her home. She joined her husband Bill just in time to spend Valentine’s Day together.
"Susan grew up the youngest of 9 siblings, in Aalsmeer, the flower capital of the Holland, where her family grew carnations. She learned about flowers from a young age and her passion for plants would have a big impact on her future life in Canada. Susan met her husband Bill at a dance in her hometown and after getting married, she and Bill set sail for a new life in Canada.
"While the farm Susan and Bill purchased came with a small patch of strawberries, it was Susan who pressed for Bill to add greenhouses and she would often recall fondly that it was her idea to get into the flower business that many people know and appreciate today.
"Those who knew Susan and called her a friend will remember her as a strong and determined woman. She needed to be to start a family with her husband, in a new country and raise 5 children. Susan and Bill were a united team, Bill working mechanic jobs or in the field and Susan running the house, caring for their children and somehow always finding the energy to take in foster children while never missing a meal or coffee time.
"Susan was a strong and guiding matriarch for the Heeman family, always keeping family first. She was a deeply caring and proud mother, grandmother, great grandmother and foster mother. Few things brought a bigger smile to her face then a visit or a hug from her grandchildren or great-grandchild. Her grandkids fondly remember sleepovers at grandmas, strawberry and custard desserts, receiving a chocolate letter (a Dutch tradition) at Christmas, and reading with her amazing collection of books.
"With Bill as her partner, Susan was a mean bridge player, world traveller and dancer. Susan and Bill were famous at the London Dutch Club for dancing the night away. Together they saw much of the world and lived life to the fullest. They took cruises all over the world to destinations like the Amazon, New Zealand, Scandinavia and many more.
"Over many years serving guests at Heeman’s, she formed close bonds with many in the community. She was a regular friendly face, a staple at the Berry Beanery and enjoyed catching up with friends and socializing over a cup of coffee. Next month Susan (and her husband Bill) are to be inducted in the Middlesex County Agriculture Hall of Fame for their contributions to the sector and community.
"Susan’s presence will be missed but she will not be forgotten. She lives on in the memories of friends, the teachings she shared with her children and grandchildren and a strong and proud legacy she leaves behind."
For more information:
Heeman's
heeman.ca