Jean (Sien) Fleer (nee Mulder)

Jean (Sien) Fleer (nee Mulder), 96 years young, passed away peacefully on May 26th at St. Peter’s at Chedoke LTC, her home for only 2 weeks. She was surrounded by loving family (Lauren and Henri Parkes, Carolyn Gallichan) and a caring, empathetic staff of Birch floor, who allowed us to spend 24 hours a day with her.

Born in Holland, she was one of 17 children. Jean is predeceased by Rudy, her husband of 59 years, her sister Dorothy (John) Haggeman of Chatham, and 14 brothers and sisters in Holland.  She is survived by her youngest sister, Truus (Herman) Vulkers, their children (Annet (Wim) Klink, Jean Vulkers, Patricia (Lex) Stremmelaar, George (Anita) Vulkers, Paul Vulkers (Janine Slootstra), Margaret Vulkers, Agnes (Jan) Schokker, Mary-Ann (Rudy) Koers); and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews in Holland who meant very much to her. Please know that you were loved and appreciated in her life. In Canada, she is survived by Henri (Tony) Parkes, Lauren (Roland), Steven (Ryan); John Haggeman; Lucy Haggeman; Ben (Jan) Haggeman, Mary, Sarah, Jessica; Rudy (Slavica) Haggeman; Joe (Janna-dec.) Rienties, Ron, Bernie (Donna), Tyler (Jackie), Raina, Easton, Leanna (Josh), David (Sherry), Lisa (Vince), Jennifer (Joey), Joe (Cheryl), Devon; Gerard (Hermien) Mulder, and Marc.

Jean arrived in Canada in 1954 with her nephew Joe.  She was a long-time resident of Hamilton living at her Strathcona address for 40 years. Jean embraced Canada, travelling and camping extensively, from coast to coast. She never missed an opportunity to visit or take visitors to “the west” and drop in on her nephew Ben and his family in Calgary. Her Chatham family will always remember the excitement of the red Denninger’s bag, the many camping trips and delicious picnics they shared.

Jean had an amazing memory, and a good sense of humour. She loved life, family, travel, cycling and socializing with friends. She especially enjoyed the company of her new friends at the Court at Rushdale, the gatherings with the Rienties at Bernie’s, and Christmas dinners with the Wiggers family. A highlight of her life at 94 years of age was flying to Holland for her sister’s 100th birthday. Jean embraced life and remained up-to-date, even creating a Tik Tok dance video at 96 with Lauren. Her infectious laugh and smile will be missed by all.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to St. Peter’s at Chedoke or another charity of your choice in her memory.

Please write jeanfleerfuneral@gmail.com for more information. Due to Covid restrictions, a funeral mass and celebration of life are planned for a later date. As per her wishes she was cremated and will be buried with her husband in a private ceremony.