Maaike “Mica” Huisman of Red Deer, AB, previously of Sundre, AB, passed away at Villa Marie Covenant Care in Red Deer, AB, on December 27, 2025, at the age of 90 years.

Maaike was born in Kollum, the Netherlands, the oldest of six children. In Kollum, she attended an all-girls high school. At the age of 19, she immigrated to Canada with her entire family, settling in London, Ontario. When Maaike first came to Canada, she worked as a nanny for a family in London, Ontario. While working for this family, she travelled with them to Calgary. While in Calgary, Maaike met John Van Benthem through a young persons’ group associated with the Calgary Reformed Church. They had their first date at Bowness Park in Calgary, were married there in 1956, and made Calgary their home, where they lived and raised their three children.

Maaike is survived by her daughter, Marsha Leona Cochrane, sons, James Richard Van Benthem and Michael John Van Benthem; four grandchildren; brother, John Vander Tuin; and sister, Sylvia Lublinkhof, as well as numerous extended family members.

Maaike was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Van Benthem, over 55 years ago in 1969. As well as by her parents; her brothers, Peter and Richard; and her sister, Joan.

In accordance with Maaike’s wishes, no funeral will be held.

Memorial donations in Mica’s honor may be directed to the Parkinson’s Association of Alberta, Suite 312, 6835 Railway Street S.E., Calgary, AB T2H 2V6 (or check their current website for the latest details, as addresses can change).

Condolences to Maaike’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Maaike Huisman” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944