Obituary of Anje Tom

Anje Tom (née Blaauw)

August 30, 1935 – December 21, 2024

It is with great sadness that the family of Anje Tom (née Blaauw) announces her  passing on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 89.

Anje was born on August 30, 1935, to Geert and Mieke Blaauw in the village of Hattemerbroek, Holland.

Growing up as a young girl in wartime Holland, she experienced the challenges of an occupied country. After completing her studies in nursing, Anje dedicated herself to caring for mentally challenged patients at a hospital.

Shortly after marrying the love of her life, Herb Tom (predeceased on October 29, 2006), the couple embarked on a new adventure. They sailed across the Atlantic to Halifax’s Pier 21 and continued by train to Toronto.

Anje and Herb lived in many cities and towns across Ontario, Quebec, and Labrador before settling in Vankleek Hill, where the family lovingly renovated an old schoolhouse. Together, they started a helicopter service business, which allowed them to explore numerous interesting destinations. They also took pride in the custom home they built in Puerto Rico.

Anje had a passion for reading, stained glass work, needlepoint, and playing bridge. She was also a talented and self-taught professional seamstress who worked in a shop on Hawkesbury’s Main Street.

This special woman will be lovingly remembered by her children, Mary-Ann (Ken), Peter (Louise), and Gerry (Donna). She was a cherished grandmother to Jennifer and Jason Reddick, Katharine, Peter Jr. and Michael Tom, Matthew and Christopher Tom. 

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family members.

Memorial donations in memory of Anje to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated by the family.

A Tree of Remembrance in her honour will be planted in the McAlpine Forever Forest, Vankleek Hill.