Services
Obituary
Guest Book
1927
2016
Aukje Hofman was born in Scharnegoutum, the Netherlands, on May 14, 1927, the oldest daughter of Benjamin Hofman and Jitske Tolsma. She received her schooling in the Netherlands. In 1943 she lost her mother and became responsible for her father's household. She met Meije (Mark) Tiersma at a birthday party and the two of them were married in 1951. They immigrated to the United States in 1958, bringing with them Pieter (Peter), Jitske (Jude) and Brechtje (Brenda). After living in southern California for two years, the family moved to the Central Valley, where the fourth child, Benjamin, was born. After living in various locations, they settled in Visalia in 1971, where they operated a dairy farm until Mark died in 2004.
Arlene was involved in the local community, where many people remember her as the friendly Avon lady. She loved to read, and encouraged her children in their education. Music was an important part of her life, and she often played the pump organ that the family brought with them from the Netherlands. Arlene sang in the choir for many years at the Christian Reformed Church, where she was an active member. She sustained a deep and abiding love for God throughout her life. Her friends and family meant much to her, especially her three grandchildren, Mark, Luke and Sara.
Arlene is preceded in death by her husband Mark and her son Peter. She is survived by a sister, Jitske and a brother, Oene, both in the Netherlands, as well as her daughter-in-law Thea, her children Jude (John), Brenda (Carlo), Ben (Jeanine) and their families.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1 Entry
September 16, 2016
Sandi Soto (Ehoff)
So sorry to hear of Arlene's death. I think about the family often although it's been years since I've seen anyone of you. I have fond memories of Arlene from my high school days hanging out with Brenda. She was always so giving and I would give her the title of "Ms Hospitality". She gave me my first taste of raw milk straight from the cow and my first real eggnog. My thoughts and prayers are with you the family.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more