Marie Petronella Elizabeth Van Kessel, Fraser's Mountain, passed away May 30, 2023 at the Maritime Oddfellows Home in Pictou, Nova Scotia. She was a beloved wife, mother, mother-in-law, Tante, friend, and Oma. 

Born on Feb. 15, 1927 in The Netherlands, Marie was the daughter of Johannes and Johanna de Groot. She married Gerardus (Gerald) A. Van Kessel on March 17, 1953, and soon thereafter they emigrated to Canada. After four years living and working on the Snide farm in Shubenacadie, Marie and Gerry moved to Fraser’s Mountain and started their own dairy farm where they raised their five children. Their children remain forever grateful for their courage, their hard work, and the values they instilled in us.

Marie is the last surviving member of her immediate family. Besides her parents, brothers, and sisters, she was predeceased by her husband, Gerald; her daughter, Mary Ann; and her daughter-in-law, Karen. She is survived by her children, Peter (Bernadette), New Glasgow; John (Jo-Anne), Fraser’s Mtn.; Jo Ann (Curt), Maryland; and Andrew (Jill), Saskatoon; her son-in-law, Stewart (Sandra); her grandchildren, Graham (Jessica), Amanda (Ian), Michael (Angie), Michelle (Greg), Jason, Jaelyn, Andrew, Gerald, Mitchel, and Evan; and great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Caroline, Emma, Maggie, Ainsley, Raya, and Maxine.

The family would like to thank the incredible staff at the Maritime Oddfellows Home for taking such good care of Marie for the last two years. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in New Glasgow with Father Tom MacNeil officiating. Burial will be in the Holy Cross Cemetery and a reception will follow in the church hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Maritime Oddfellows Recreation Fund or a charity of your choice. Arrangements are under the direction of R.H. Porter Funeral Home, New Glasgow.