Elizabeth ‘Elly’ Devries

June 22, 1928 – July 16, 2021

As a resilient, hard-working and nurturing mother, Elizabeth Paula Devries lived 93 years with grace, conviction, tenacity and at times, a mischievous spirit.  It is with grateful but heavy hearts Tim, Linda and Len Dineen along with granddaughters Heather, Paula and Leah Dineen, and brother René Stouthamer share the news of Elly’s death on July 16, 2021. 

Elly was born in Terneuzen, The Netherlands to Reinnier and Theodora Stouthamer (Groot) and lived through WWII.  Disguised as a nurse, a feisty Elly rode her bike to deliver strategic messages (bound to her midriff) for the underground resistance forces.  Elly’s red hair and Carl’s daring skating moves on a canal in Holland drew the two together in 1947.  Married in 1950, Elly had to promise “to obey your husband” which she promptly told Carl was NOT going to happen.  Their determination, strength and sense of adventure were evenly matched.  Leaving all family behind in 1952, they boarded the ‘Waterman’ with $25 dollars and one trunk, immigrated to Canada and became proud Canadian citizens.  Elly and Carl (2017) raised 3 children, Linda, Cathy (2007) and Tim.  Many memories were created while camping with the kids and later while trailering across North America after retirement.  Over the years Toronto, Ottawa, Eganville, Tillsonburg and Woodstock were home.  Elly was a great cook, gardener, spinner, weaver, knitter and stained glass artist.  However, she was most passionate about training, showing, walking 50,000 plus kilometers and volunteering with her dogs.  When her 17th canine companion passed away last year, Elly surprised all of us when she adopted Patches, a cat she instantly connected with when she searched the local animal shelter on her iPad. 

As her quality of life waned, Elly was so very relieved and grateful to be able to choose when her life would end.  Elly’s passing was dignified and gentle as her family bid their final farewells and appreciation for a life well lived. 

Love always, Elly

At Elly’s request, there will not be a visitation or funeral service.