BORN

1933

DIED

2014

FUNERAL HOME

Thompson Funeral Home

530 Industrial Parkway South

Aurora, Ontario

Elly Zeiger Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 22, 2014.

Elly Zeiger (nee Verstappen) (December 12, 1933 – January 22, 2014)
Elly died peacefully at home with her beloved husband, Bill, by her side on Wednesday, January 22, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer. Survived by Bill, her loving husband of 53 years, her devoted children Judy (Win); Karen, and Will (Mark) and her three grandchildren Win, Cam and Carly. Elly is also survived by her sisters Mies Feitsma, Twan Langenhuizen and Magriet Verstappen and nieces, nephews and family in Canada, the U.S., and the Netherlands.
Elly was born in Helmond, the Netherlands, the second youngest of six children, to Hendrikus Verstappen and Petronella Hubens. She was extremely close with all of her siblings, and especially Twan, with whom she shared their wedding and many happy, hilarious trips, sailing in the Virgin Islands with their husbands, the two Bills. Bill Zeiger had already immigrated to Canada and was returning home from a visit to the Netherlands in 1958 when he met Elly on the plane; she was on her way to join her two sisters who already had moved to Canada. A romance quickly developed, and Bill and Elly were married in 1960, settling in Scarborough.
Bill and Elly did everything together, including building a business and their family home in Aurora, Ontario. Early summers were spent sailing, camping in Midland and on road trips around Canada and the U.S. Recently the entire family spent time together in Spain for Bill & Elly's 50th wedding anniversary. Another family trip to Italy was in the works when Elly fell ill again this fall.
Elly made friends everywhere she went and always had a smile on her face. Her active life included horseback riding with her family, golf with her friends at Beacon Hall, and skiing with the Ski Bees. She also devoted countless hours volunteering with her colleagues at the Netherlands Bazaar. She was an amazing wife, mother and grandmother. Her biggest joy was having the whole family stay for a weekend, cooking, swimming and hanging around. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
We are grateful for the devoted care Elly received from Dr. Teresa Petrella, Dr. Arjun Saghal, Dr. Julian Spears and the staff at St. Michael's and Sunnybrook hospitals, as well from the community care at home.
A celebration of Elly's life will be held Monday, January 27, 2014 at The Mansion, 400 Industrial Pkwy S., Aurora, Ontario, L4G 5V3 from 11am to 2pm. We welcome messages of condolences in the guestbook on the Thompson Funeral Home website, www.thompsonfh-aurora.com, or in the Guest book at the celebration. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sunnybrook Hospital Odette Cancer Centre.



What is this death but negligible accident?
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner.
All is well.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Elly Zeiger

What is your first memory of Elly?

Share a favorite memory you have of Elly.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Elly.

Describe a time when Elly made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Elly?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Elly.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Elly.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Elly.

What is something you learned from Elly?

Not sure what to say?

59 Entries

February 11, 2014

I was very sorry to read of Elly,s passing.
It brought back many memories of many years ago.
We won the novice duplicate bridge award and began golf adventures together.
I enjoyed her friendship so much.
Sincerely,
Jean McKague

January 31, 2014

Carol & Ed Keogh

Dear Bill and Family, Ed and I are so sad to have lost our dear friend, Elly. Our social calendars here in Florida were always full. We enjoyed so many rounds of golf and dinners out together. She will be sorely missed. Love, Ed and Carol Keogh (Venice, FL)...her BVG family

January 28, 2014

We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Elly was always such a delight to be with.
Sincerely,
Carol and Peter Newall

January 28, 2014

Paul Steiner

Dear Bill and Karen ,
Everyone at the office was sadden to hear of Ellie's passing. She was always a joy to help and see , and we send our thoughts and prayers.
Dr Paul Steiner and staff

January 28, 2014

Uncle Bill Judy Karen and Will I just want to say that I am so sorry for your loss.I always enjoyed when I would come and clean and get to have a chat with Tante Elly.She always so happy and had the greatest smile.She really was one of a kind and touched so many lives with her kindness.It was an honour to go up and read my poem.Thank you for leting me do that.I am including a copy for you so you may get a chance to read it again.Much love Pattie
A limb has fallen fro the family tree
I keep hearing a voice that says greive not for me
Remmeber the best times, the laughter, the song
The good life I lived when I was strong
Continure the heritage ,I'm counting on you
Keep smileing and surely the sun will shine through
My mind is at ease, my soul it at rest
remembering you all I was truely blessed
Continue tradition, no matter how small
Go on with life, dont worry about falls
I miss you all dearly, so keep up your chin
Until the day comes and were together again.

January 28, 2014

Dear family & friends of Elly, I am one of many who enjoyed time with Elly. For me, it was on the golf course in Venice, Fl. I am saddened by her passing. My deepest sympathy and prayers are with all she left in this life! She is missed. Hugs and love, Barb Hintze

January 28, 2014

Julie McIntyre

Dear Judy and family--Having recently gone through what you are now, I know what a distressing time it can be. One of my friends shared this thought, which I found to be true: "There is almost nothing sadder than losing your mom, but there are so many silver linings that get mixed in, that somehow, in the end, you do feel truly blessed." I hope it strikes a chord with you as well.
With condolences and best wishes.

January 28, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers and with your family as to adjust to Ellie's loss. She will be missed by all.

John and Donna Smolenski

January 28, 2014

Dear Bill & family, Our hearts reach out to you. We'll all miss Elly so much. She was so real, and so much fun,so lovely and loving, a good friend. Hugs & Love, Doreen & Ken

January 28, 2014

Marie en Jan [email protected]

Beste Wim en familie,

Ik, Marie, ken jou al mijn hele leven. In 1973 hebben we Ellie ontmoet. Vanaf dat moment waren we hele goede vrienden. Wij waren altijd welkom bij jullie en hebben samen met jullie vele mooie, gezellige dagen/avonden doorgebracht. Bijna ieder jaar kwamen we naar Canada en werden we bij jullie uitgenodigd voor een borrel en een barbeque. Jullie waren altijd zeer gastvrij.
Samen met jullie hebben we een week doorgebracht in het vakantiehuis in Venice. Ook hebben we eens onze huizen geruild. We hebben hier vele mooie herinneringen aan.
Ongeveer drie weken geleden sprak ik jullie aan de telefoon. Ik hoorde van Ellie dat jullie van plan waren om naar Florida te gaan. Helaas heeft dit niet mogen gebeuren. Wim, jij belde al vrij snel hierna om te vertellen dat de gezondheid van Ellie achteruit ging. Wij waren diep geschokt door dit bericht.
Toen jij belde om te zeggen dat ze was overleden, waren we zeer verdrietig. We zullen Ellie enorm missen. Ze was altijd erg spontaan, gastvrij en aardig.
Het zal vreemd zijn, zonder haar, als wij weer in Canada komen.
Wij willen jullie allemaal heel veel sterkte toewensen met het verlies van een geweldige lieve vrouw, moeder/schoonmoeder, oma en zus.
We zullen haar enorm missen.

Jan en Marie Haafkes

Posted by Marie en Jan mariemensink@live.nl

January 28, 2014

Marie + Jan Haafkes

Beste Wim, en familie,

Ik, Marie, ken jou, Wim, al mijn hele leven. In 1973 hebben wij Elly ontmoet. Vanaf dat moment waren we goede vrienden. Wij kwamen bijna ieder jaar in Canada en waren altijd welkom bij jullie voor een borrel en een barbeque. Wim en Ellie, jullie waren altijd zeer gastvrij. Ook zijn wij een week bij jullie geweest in het vakantiehuis in Venice en hebben we aan huizenruil gedaan. Aan alles hebben we fantastische herinneringen.
Drie weken geleden heb ik, Marie, nog gesproken met Ellie. Zij gaf aan dat jullie nog van plan waren om naar Florida op vakantie te gaan. Niet lang daarna kreeg ik het droevige bericht van jou, Wim, dat het niet goed ging met de gezondheid van Ellie. Je vertelde dat ze nog maar kort te leven had. We waren diep geschokt door dit bericht. Toen je belde Wim, om ons te vertellen dat Ellie was overleden, waren we zeer verdrietig. We zullen haar enorm missen. Het zal vreemd zijn, zonder Ellie, als wij weer in Canada komen.
We willen jullie allemaal heel veel sterkte toewensen met het verlies van een lieve vrouw, moeder/schoonmoeder, oma en zus. We denken aan jullie en leven met jullie mee.

Jan en Marie Haafkes

Posted by Marie + Jan Haafkes

January 27, 2014

Anne Renwick

Dear Bill, I am so sorry I was not able to attend today. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Elly's smile would always light up any room. She will be missed by many. Sincerely Anne Renwick ( formerly D'Arcy )

January 27, 2014

Beste Bill en kinderen,

langs deze weg zenden wij jullie onze welgemeende deelneming met het overlijden van jullie vrouw en moeder en onze tante Elly.
Wij houden haar in gedachten als een goedlachse vrouw, die een natuurlijke warmte uitstraalde naar haar omgeving.
Heel veel sterkte gewenst met dit verlies.

Harry en Willy Feitsma, Enschede, Holland

January 27, 2014

Paul Zeiger

Uncle Bill and family,
Our deepest condolences to you all.

Love Paul & Debra

January 27, 2014

Rene and Moniek Rijnders-Haafkes

Dear Bill, Judy, Win, Karen, Will, Mark and the grandchildren Win, Cam and Carly,

We feel sad that Elly passed away...we got to know her as a very friendly en funny person. Always hospitable when we where in Canada. We enjoyed our stay with Elly and you last summer and we wish that we could be with you today...
Lot's of strength today and in the future. I know that you al wil mis here a lot...know that you and Elly are in our thoughts!
Big hug...

January 27, 2014

We wish to pass along our heart felt sorrow on learning of Elly's passing. We all have been such dear friends in Florida and will most certainly miss her warm smile and marvelous sense of humor. She was a terrific gal. Our prayers go out to Bill and the Family. God Bless, Connie and Jack Scheid Venice, Fl

January 27, 2014

Dear Bill,
Mariet and I were saddened to learn of the passing of your wife of many years, Elly Zeiger-Verstappen
Luckily you have three children and three grandchildren to carry on the torch!
In my memory, Elly was a gracious hostess and devoted spouse - yours is a great loss, and we mourn with you.
We were “in the clothes” for the drive to Aurora, but the weather forecast was grim and my sports sedan is outfitted with very smooth racing tires, so we decided to send a donation to the
Sunnybrook Odette Cancer centre instead.

With best wishes for you and your family
Oncko and Mariet van Vierssen Trip.

January 27, 2014

Dear Karen and the Zeiger Family
Please know our thoughts are with you.
Lots of Love, Ian and Dorie Billich

January 27, 2014

DEAR Bill, Judy, Karen,and WILL

May God Bless You in this time of sorrow.
We send our Love and Sympathy
John ans Donna

January 27, 2014

Mark Samis

Bill, Judy, Karen and Will

Our deepest sympathies for your loss.

Mark Samis and Nicki Hughes

January 27, 2014

Dear Bill
Our deepest sympathy to you and the family.
Yvonne & Bob Peterson

January 27, 2014

Dear Bill and Family,
Our condolences to you and your Family. We are still in shock hearing about Elly's passing - such a wonderful happy person, she will be missed, as a Partner, Mom, Oma and friend.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Fondly,
Petra and Sjouke Horopw

January 27, 2014

Dear Bill and Family,
,
Sorry to hear of Elly's passing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Carla and Willem Verhaag

January 26, 2014

Terry Kelly

Judy, Karen, and Will, I am sorry for the loss of your mom. She was always so fun, made me laugh, and always made me feel welcome.

January 26, 2014

Mary & Mo

Dear Bill and family,
We were so fortunate to have known Elly and have her as a wonderful friend. She will be missed but not forgetten. Our sincerest prayers and sympathy to you and family.
All our love, Mary & Mo

January 26, 2014

Ed and Roxy Griesmer

Dear Bill and Family, We were very saddened to hear of Elly's passing and send to you our prayers and deepest sympathies. Ed and Roxy Griesmer

January 26, 2014

David Myshrall

We are so sorry to hear of the loss. She was lovely woman and will be missed. Dave raluca myshrall and family

January 26, 2014

Bill and Judy, I am so sorry, and send my sincere sympathy for your loss.
Neil Wood

January 25, 2014

Donna Flotron

Bill, Don and I so enjoyed the time we had with Elly. We especially remember the very fun golf game at BVG when the "Canadians played the Americans" and also the enjoyable day at Beacon Hill and the wonderful meal Elly made afterwards.
Elly was such a warm unassuming fun women to be with and seemed to be always surrounded by friends. I could always understand why everyone was drawn to her.
We are sad for you and your family as you grieve her passing and we keep you in our thoughts
Fondly
Donna Flotron

January 25, 2014

Janet, and David Perini

Mr Zeiger, Judy , Karen , Will and the rest of your family. David and I were so very sad when we heard of mrs. Zeiger's passing . I always admired
Her wonderful smile and genuine personality. I didn't see her since Karen's wedding many years ago. But recently we ran into each other in the grocery store . Even though I could tell she was in a hurry she took the time to catch up with me .still with that warm youthful personality I remembered as a child . She hadn't changed a bit. Her inner beauty shone through like a ray of light. . It was an honor to know her.

January 25, 2014

Dear Bill, Judy, Karen, Will and family,
Elly's passing has left a void in many hearts. We are reflecting on her wonderful smile, easy manner and warm embracing personality. Our thoughts and love are with you.

With sincere condolences,
Norm and Karen Smith and family

January 25, 2014

Bill,we are saddened to hear of Elly's passing.
We had a nice visit with her at the BH 25th Anniversary party.She looked beautiful, with that wonderful smile and twinkle in her eyes.
She will be missed by all her friends at BH.
We will be thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.

Sincerely, Marilyn and Derek Sutton

January 25, 2014

We remember Elly with her beautiful smile and warm personality. She will be missed at BVG. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ray & Cyndy Rouleau

January 24, 2014

deb crowe

Bill, Rick and I are very sad to hear of Elly's passing. I had such a nice time with her at the Past Captain/Past President outing at Beacon Hall this summer and she looked so great with her new "hairdo". I got to know Karen when she was Elly's guest at the member/guest a number of years - Karen I am sorry for the loss of your mother. I am sorry we will not be able to join you to celebrate her life on Monday as we are in Arizona...we will definitely be thinking of you all at that time.

January 24, 2014

Scott & Loretta Johnson

It was only a year ago at the Burgundy Café that we had such an enjoyable dinner with Elly and Bill after a movie. A few days later as Bill was trying to teach this old dog how to keep the files for the BVG golf group, Elly insisted that I have coffee, and it was the best coffee to keep me focused.

Thanks Elly,
and best wishes to you, Bill.

Scott & Loretta

January 24, 2014

Liz Snip

Dear Judy, Win, Win Jr, Cam,

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I hope that the memories of the many fun and joyous moments you've had with your beloved mother (and Grandmother) will help lift your hearts during this difficult time. With our love and support,
Liz, Kevin, Liam and Mackenzie

January 24, 2014

John & Pat Lorriman

She always made us smile whenever we were privileged enough to meet her.

Pat & I sent our love to you, Bill.

John Lorriman

January 24, 2014

We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing on of Elly
and send our sincere sympathy and prayers to Bill and the family.
Gerard and Anny Janssen

January 24, 2014

Our deepest condolences Bill. Elly was a wonderful individual and will be missed. Frank and Lesley van Veen.

January 24, 2014

agnes del Pizzo

Elly's ready smile and friendly ways will long be remembered - and missed -by her friends at B.V.G. We send her family and loved ones our deepest sympathy. We share in your loss. Sincerely, Agnes and Joe Del Pizzo

January 24, 2014

Mirjam Nijsink-Haafkes

Vanuit Holland, wil ik jullie allemaal, heel veel sterkte wensen. Een vrouw, moeder en oma te moeten missen, doet pijn.
Ik heb Ellie een paar keer ontmoet in Holland en kan mij herinneren dat het een lieve, aardige vrouw was.
Koester de mooie herinneringen die jullie aan haar hebben.

Veel sterkte,

Mirjam Nijsink (Haafkes): dochter van Marie en Jan

January 24, 2014

Bill and family, my very deepest sympathy. Elly will be missed my so many people, she was such a people person. "BVG" won't be the same without her.
Bob and I had so many good times there, with you and Elly. Maybe Bob and Elly will play a few rounds of golf, in heaven.
Fondly, Jane Wolf

January 24, 2014

Phil and Donna Hardy

Dear Bill and Family,

Donna and I are saddened by the news of Elly's passing. We consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have called Elly a friend for the last 26 years. She was a Lady in every sense of the word. The Beacon Hall family has lost a kindred spirit and someone who has left an indelible impression on all who had the good fortune to know her. Our deepest sympathies.

January 24, 2014

Maike Tonini-Verstappen

January 24, 2014

Han and I offer you and your children and grandchildren our
Deepest sympathy. We were fortunate to have known her.Elly
Was a wonderful person and she will be missed.
Poeks Dijkman

January 24, 2014

Irmgard Segerink

Hello Bill,, I'am so sorry for the loss of Elly. She was a good and gorgious woman. Our Deepest Sympathie. Dat jullie dit verlies een plekje kunnen geven in de toekomst.

Lida and Irmgard Segerink

January 24, 2014

Lise and Chris Van Rossem

We want to extend our condolences to you and your family.
Elly will be missed very much by all her friends, she was
always such a shinning light, and always so nice to be with,
even during her ordeal when she was taking medication. We
are very fortunate to have so many great memories which
we will treasure for ever. We are sorry that we cannot attend
the celebration of Elly's life but our thoughts are with all of you.

January 24, 2014

Hi Bill, Kathy and I were very sorry to hear of Elly's passing. You and Elly have always been stalwart Beacon Haller's and Elly will be truly missed. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Bob and Kathy Doerner

January 24, 2014

Hi Bill,
My deepest symyjathy
Ken Jackson

January 23, 2014

Michelle Oakman

So sorry to hear of your mothers passing. . Your loved ones never leave you but remain in your hearts and thoughts forever. Remember the good times and the special things you learned from her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Scott, Michelle, Sydney and Shauna Oakman

January 23, 2014

Gerry and Sharon Michaud will be making a donation on behalf of Elly to the Sunnybrook Hospital Odette Cancer Centre.

January 23, 2014

Barb Malec

So sad for your family. Your in my constant thoughts and prayers. Nothing will erase your sorrow...but she will be in your heart forever and her memories will live on and comfort you in time. Hugs xoxoxox

January 23, 2014

We didn't have the pleasure of knowing Elly, but the fact that she and Bill raised their son Will to be such a fine man says to us that she must have been a very special woman. Our sincere condolences to the Zeiger family at this sad time.
Sincerely,
Gerry & Sharon Michaud

January 23, 2014

WE just received notice of Elly's passing. We did have many wonderful times together over the many years. We both will miss her.
Our condolescences to Bill and the family. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Simonne and John van der Ster
1 Meadowbrook lane
Thornbury, Ontario

January 23, 2014

Louise Smith

Sending loving and healing energy. When someone passes to the other side, always remember they don't actually leave, they merely change the way they stay.
Much love,
Louise and Paul Smith

January 23, 2014

Lucy Scodeller

There are no words that can express
how sorry I am for you loss. Know only
that she is in Gods hands and that he
will look after her.

January 23, 2014

John Rudyk

Sincere condolences and sympathy to you and your family, Karen, during this sad time. I hope the loving memories of your mother stay with you always and provide comfort and peace.

January 23, 2014

Drew Basek

I first met Elly 28 years ago, when her future son-in-law, Win McKay, asked me to accompany him to Aurora to "meet the parents" for the first time. Little did Win (and I) realize just how friendly and welcoming Elly (and Bill) would be that day and every time I would see her. I honestly don't think I ever saw her without a smile on her face, genuine in every way. It didn't matter what kind of mood you were in at the time; you couldn't help feed off the joy she had for life. And while I can only imagine how difficult this must be for Bill, Judy, Will and Karen, I can gain solace knowing that vibrant, loving souls like Elly's never truly leave us, and our lives are made so much richer because of her.

January 23, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You all now have a "special guardian angel" watching over you. Loving memories will keep Elly with us always.
With many hugs, Donna and Klaas Vandertuin.

Showing 1 - 59 of 59 results

Make a Donation
in Elly Zeiger's name

Memorial Events
for Elly Zeiger

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Thompson Funeral Home

530 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora, ON L4G6W8

How to support Elly's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Elly Zeiger's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more