Johanna “ˈJoːkə” Van Aarsen was born in Boxmeer, a small town in southeast Netherlands to parents Albert and Lydia, as one of seven children. She was a kind, caring and empathetic soul, who often put the needs of others long before her own.

Growing up, Johanna moved several times within the Netherlands, before settling in Amsterdam to get married and give birth to her son in 1964. Johanna loved exploring new places, and the following years were spend doing some extensive travelling in Europe to places such as Italy, France, Belgium and Germany. She also loved her birds and would always have at least one (often several) canaries living with her throughout the years. In 1976, she moved to the innovative new city of Lelystad, that was build on reclaimed seabed, as part of the first wave of people relocating there. While in Lelystad, a new, bold, exciting plan was made to move to Fort McMurray, Canada.

Arriving in Canada in April of 1978, Johanna learned things in Fort McMurray were....COLD. Much colder than the Netherlands had ever been ! The ambient temperature was -40c upon arrival, and a run to the winter clothing store had to be made. In Fort McMurray, Johanna worked for Northland Interiors as an accredited seamstress which was a trade she learned back in the Netherlands. This was something she was always very proud of.

Years in Fort McMurray ticked by with visits from her brothers and sisters from Holland, trips to Canadian destinations such as Toronto, Banff, Jasper and various spots in British Columbia, as well as the high school graduation of her son.

One day, while reading through a Dutch church magazine, she connected with an Dutch farmer in Ontario. In the fall of 1986, she decided to relocate to Alymer, Ontario, beginning her next chapter. Johanna spent the next 34 years busy working on the farm and being a stepmom to a great family. During this time, she took many trips to Fort McMurray to see her two grandsons, as well as trips to Holland to visit family.

After the passing of her partner in 2022, it was time to move back to Alberta. A nice retirement home in Pincher Creek suited her just fine. Here Johanna enjoyed countless hours participating in activities such as bingo, quilting, social gatherings (especially ones with Polka music!), melody moments, field trips and many other activities. Johanna loved being around people in the retirement home and became known for her fun and outgoing personality as well as her spunky and feisty traits. Johanna also enjoyed many visits from her kids, grandkids, great grandkids and stepfamily while living in the home.

Johanna is survived by her son Roland (Liane); grandsons: Damien (Sydney), Kyle, and Marcel (Maddie); sisters: Lydia and Coby; brother Cor; and 3 great-grandchildren. She will also be missed by her stepfamily: Carel (Betty), Maria, Martha (Chuck), Margaret (Grant), Jorden Jr., Edward (Carol), and Debra (Benson); as well as numerous nieces and nephews back in the Netherlands.

Sadly, Johanna was predeceased by her long-term partner Jorden, and her brothers Henry, Ben, and Albert.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Canada

A memorial service will be held at Snodgrass Funeral Home Pincher Creek Chapel on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 11:00am.

To watch the service live please connect via Zoom using the below link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81927950534?pwd=ygZSkL7sT2WybOsbOMUiqAl1y6jnga.1

Meeting ID: 819 2795 0534

Passcode: 666762

Arrangements entrusted to Snodgrass Funeral Home Pincher Creek Chapel - (403) 627-4864