Wilhelmina Maria Ernsting
November 15, 1931 - May 13, 2021
Wilhelmina (“Willy”) Ernsting passed away peacefully at University Hospital, London, on Thursday, May 13, 2021, in the presence of her loving family.
Born in Amsterdam in 1931 to Marie and Gerardus Ernsting, Wilhelmina was one of eight children. She left the Netherlands at the age of twenty-three with her then-husband, Jack Vestering, to pursue a new life in Canada. Four of her children, Marion Jacobs (Dennis), Lizette Johnston, Gary Vestering (Diana), and Benny Vestering, who passed away as an infant, were born in Vancouver, and Willy Vestering (Sammi King) was born during a brief return to the Netherlands in the early sixties. When the family moved back to Canada, they settled in London, Ontario, where Wilhelmina worked as a seamstress while raising her children.
Wilhelmina enjoyed playing cards and board games with friends and family, participating in her church community, and visiting new places. She had an infectious smile, was always immaculately dressed, and took great pride in her family and her home.
For the last 18 months, Wilhelmina lived at Earls Court Village where she made friends among residents and staff alike. She weathered the pandemic with impressive fortitude and despite multiple health challenges showed an unparalleled will to live. The family is grateful for the kindness of the huge team at University Hospital who cared for her in her final weeks and to the staff at Earls Court before them.
In addition to her children, Wilhelmina is survived by her grandchildren: Joshua Moore (Helen), Kevin Johnston, Alexis Clark (Bill), Casey Vestering, Kristen Johnston (Troy Smith), Adrian Vestering (Tara); her great-grandchildren: Jessica, Cassandra, Olivia, Cody, Jaidyn, Chloe, Shauna, and Ava; and great-great-grandchildren: Malachi, Bryson, and Brody.
Cremation has taken place. There will be a celebration of life with Wilhelmina’s extended family when restrictions allow. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name to the Arthritis Society or a charity of your choice would be gratefully received.
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Wilhelmina was a great friend and we enjoyed tea together many times. She was a lovely seamstress and had beautiful smile. Will miss her at church also. Blessings, Grace Sweeney
My condolences to all of Willy's family and especially my brother-in-law, Gary, for the loss of your Mom/Oma. Willy has been in our family for close to 40 years and will be missed by all. She always had a big smile for me and kind words. Rest in Peace Willy!!
I would like to extend my condolences to the Vestering family in the recent passing of Wilhemina. I have known the family for many years and have fond memories of times together several years ago. Losing a parent is very sad and I hope you are able to celebrate Wilhemina by remembering the happy times together.
I would like to send my condolence to the Family of Wilhelmina, we have enjoyed many games at our gatherings on Mondays and Wednesdays an visit her many times at her appartement on Springbank drive, You are in my thought Ella Bak.
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I never met Willy Snr. but knowing Willy, I am sure she was nothing short of an amazing person. Willy (and Sammi), I am so sorry for your loss. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the Vestering family. Gözde
~ Gözde Öncil