Nov 14, 1928 - Dec 2, 2017
It is with great sadness that we must say goodbye to a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.
Bestema, as she was known to her grandchildren, was a beautiful soul who cared about every living thing: human, animal, or plant; but she saved her greatest devotion for her family who were the center of her world.
She was a passionate gardener and extraordinary cook and baker, and guests to her home always left full of love, and delicious homemade food.
Ella passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 2 at the age of 89. Ella was born on November 14, 1928 in Galatz, Romania and courageously came to Canada as a young nurse to meet a future husband, John Andersen, with whom she'd only ever corresponded.
She is survived by her husband, John, children: Rita, Dirk, Ingrid, and Britt, and her 6 grandchildren: Carly, Jessica, Zac, Ben, Miranda, and Griffin.
The family would like to express their special thanks to the wonderful nurses and doctors of 4West at Kelowna General Hospital. Their kindness and compassion was greatly appreciated during a very difficult time.
A Celebration of Life gathering will be held on Friday, December 8 at 10:00 am at First Memorial Funeral Services, 1211 Sutherland Ave., Kelowna, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ella's name may be made to the BC SPCA, Kelowna branch 3785 Casorso Rd, or the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com
Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna. 260-762-2299
