Maaike (Margaret) Zylstra, 89, of Lynden, passed into glory peacefully Monday, Dec. 17, 2018.
Margaret was born to Tjepke and Jitske Smits in Berlikum, Friesland, the Netherlands, on July 28, 1929. She immigrated to the United States in 1958 and was married to Jelle (Jim) Zylstra on June 29, 1958. After marrying in Vermont and spending a few years in California, Jim and Margaret settled on a dairy farm north of Lynden and together raised three children: Josephine, Nancy and Kenneth.
Margaret took great joy in her family, her fruit cellar and life on the farm, often expressing how blessed she felt to live in the country. Although she was a diligent worker, whether it be on the farm, in her flower gardens or keeping the house, she always had time for a cup of coffee or tea, a chat with a friend, a knitting project or good book. She enjoyed volunteering in the church library, the Lynden Hope Chest and the Lynden Senior Center. She was an active member at Second Christian Reformed Church, specifically as president of the Ladies Aid Society. Most of all, she had a steadfast faith and her love of the Lord was readily apparent in all she did.
Margaret is survived by Jim, her loving husband of 60 years; her three children, Josephine (Steven) Kobylk, Nancy and Kenneth; four grandchildren, Bill (Rebecca) Van De Weert, Lindi (Jed) Quesnel, Brian (Kathleen) Van De Weert and Shelley (Jason) Rot; five great-grandchildren, Daniella, Jacob, Juliette, Madelyn and Lyndsey; also a sister, Ann Bruinsma; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Margaret was predeceased by her parents, four brothers and one sister.
A funeral service was held in Second Christian Reformed Church of Lynden at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 21. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent to the Lighthouse Mission of Bellingham.
You are invited to share your memories and condolences in the online Guest Book at www.GilliesFuneralHome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
