July 12, 2018
Dirkje (Ditty) DeWitt passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 12, 2018. She was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Bill DeWitt, who left us in March 2017.
Ditty was born in Leiden, Holland in 1932. She immigrated to Canada in 1952 with her parents and nine siblings. She met Bill while living in Sooke, British Columbia. They married in 1954 and had six children. Together, they lived a life full of adventure, including running successful fuel and tire businesses in Riske Creek and Williams Lake, fishing, holiday travel and spending time with church friends and family.
Ditty had an extraordinary work ethic, a wicked sense of humor, a kind heart, and she was devoted to her children and husband. Her passion for music, singing and playing her harmonica, gave great joy and comfort even when her memory failed her. She lived a good, full life and although in the last few years she struggled with Alzheimer's disease, Ditty remained steadfast in her love for her family and commitment to her Christian faith.
She leaves behind beloved siblings, as well as four children: John (Gale); Patricia (Mark); Joyce (Gerry); and Bill. Two of her children predeceased her: Mary Anne (2014) and Tena (1976). She has 16 grandchildren and 22 great grandchildren. Ditty was cherished by many and will be missed. We have no doubt that she is exactly where she wanted to be when life on earth was complete: with her God and with Bill, gently rocking on the water and waiting for the next catch.
A celebration of Ditty's life will be held on Monday, July 16, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at the Menno Place chapel, located next to Menno Place Hospital at 32945 Marshall Road, Abbotsford.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to B.C. Alzheimer Society: www.alzheimerbc.org.