
Agnes Jorna
February 25, 1927 - May 5, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Agnes Jorna (née Hoekstra), who was born in Oudega, the Netherlands, on February 25, 1927, and passed away peacefully at West Haldimand General Hospital in Hagersville, Ontario, on May 5, 2026, at the age of 99.
Agnes was predeceased by her devoted husband, Boate, in 2009. She was the beloved mother of six children: Elizabeth (Wally, deceased), Margaret, Bauke (Pauline) (Leona, deceased), Julia (Michael), Michael (Peruth), and Richard (Laurel). She was cherished by her 13 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Betsy and in-laws Eddy, Bokke, Janke, and many nieces and nephews.
Agnes lived a long and remarkable life filled with love, creativity, and service. Growing up in the Netherlands during World War II, she learned resilience and strength that carried her through life. In 1955, she married Boate, and together they immigrated to Canada, first settling in British Columbia before moving to Ontario. After living in several communities, they made their home on the farm along the 13th Concession outside Hagersville, where they spent over 29 years. Later, they built a home on a severed lot and enjoyed 22 years there before Agnes moved into her “perfect little house” in town, where she spent her final 14 years.
Agnes was a woman of strong Catholic faith, which guided her throughout her life. A talented seamstress and gifted creator, Agnes found joy in her handiwork—cross-stitching, knitting, and crocheting beautiful pieces that reflected her patience and artistry. She also gave generously of her time and talents as a volunteer with the Ladies Auxiliary at West Haldimand General Hospital.
A special thank you to all who helped with our mother, including her regular visitors, the Foodland delivery service, and the caring staff at West Haldimand General Hospital.
The family will honour her life with a visitation at the Hyde & Mott Chapel of R.H.B. Anderson Funeral Homes Ltd., 60 Main St. S., Hagersville on Monday from 6-9 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 94 Main St. S., Hagersville on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 at 10:30 am. Interment Hagersville Cemetery.
As expressions of sympathy, a donation can be made to Colon Cancer Research, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, or a charity of your choice.
www.rhbanderson.com
Condolences
Posted by
Bob, Barbara,Nancy Rypma
on
May 7th, 2026
We are thinking of you at this difficult time and extending our deepest sympathy.
May you find peace and comfort in the love of those who care about you.
I always think of Aunty Agnes with a smile on her face.
Take care of one another.
Love the Rypma's
Posted by
Wendy Hibbard
on
May 7th, 2026
DearJorna family.
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your Mum. I was lucky to be one of her visitors. She told so many great stories. I will miss her greatly. She truly was one of a kind.
Wendy.
Posted by
Betsy, Eddy, Eliza, Rolinda de Jong
on
May 7th, 2026
We are thinking of you and wishing you strength in this difficult time.
Betsy will miss the regular phone calls with her sister, talking about people they both knew.
Love, de Jong family
Posted by
Tracy Harbinson (AMD)
on
May 8th, 2026
Julia & Family,
Your mother was a beautiful woman, and it sounds like she lived a truly beautiful life, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of everyone she touched. The world is a better place thanks to her.
- Tracy & Trent
Posted by
Tracy Harbinson (AMD)
on
May 8th, 2026
Julia & Family,
Your mother was a beautiful woman, and it sounds like she lived a truly beautiful life, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of everyone she touched. The world is a better place thanks to her.
- Tracy & Trent
Posted by
Cathy Schwager nee Huitema
on
May 8th, 2026
G'day Jorna Family.
Just wanted to pass on my heart felt prayers of sympathy at the passing of Tante Agnes. I will will always remember her soft, caring personality especially to us kids. It was lovely to read such a beautiful tribute to her life. God Bless, Love Cathy, Caitlin, Declan and Coeli.
Posted by
Wayne Awde
on
May 9th, 2026
My condolences to the family R.I.P
Posted by
Bart-Jan Jorna
on
May 9th, 2026
Please accept our condolences on the passing of Agnes Jorna.
I loved reading this beautiful obituary for Agnes who has lived such a full life.
Bart-Jan Jorna
(son of Tsjipke Jorna, Boate's youngest brother),Calgary.
Posted by
M.P.Risselada-Galama
on
May 10th, 2026
Aan de nichten en neven in Canada, gecontroleerd met het verlies van jullie moeder, onze Tante Agnes, wat een bijzonder en lang leven heeft zij gehad. Onze Mem Teatske Jorna had een speciale band met Agnes, ze hebben vele brieven naar elkaar geschreven. Allebei getrouwd in 1955, ze hielden elkaar graag op de hoogte van hun groeiende gezin. Ook het bezoek aan Hagersville was fijn, onze Heit Sikke Galama kon het heel goed vinden met zijn zwager Boate.
Namens de familie Galama -Jorna: Margriet Risselada-Galama
Posted by
Julita Monkel
on
May 10th, 2026
Dear Family,
Sorry to hear about Agnes Passing.
We... Sister Julita Monkel, Tina Captein (Monkel) Koos Monkel and Betty Van Es (Monkel).
OUR SYMPATHY TO YOU!
We realy enjoyed visits with Anges, over the years. Agnes is going to be missed!
Posted by
Judy Imeson
on
May 11th, 2026
Our sincere sympathy to all your family on the loss of your mother and beppe. Her spirit will continue to live on in all of you. May the love and cherished memories you have be a comfort to you all at this difficult time. So very sorry we are unable to be with you as you remember and honour your mother and beppe. Our thoughts will be with you.
Ken & Judy Imeson
Brian & Christal(Imeson) Eagle
Posted by
Judy Imeson
on
May 11th, 2026
Our sincere sympathy to all your family on the loss of your mother and beppe. Her spirit will continue to live on in all of you. May the love and cherished memories you have be a comfort to you all at this difficult time. So very sorry we are unable to be with you as you remember and honour your mother and beppe. Our thoughts will be with you.
Ken & Judy Imeson
Brian & Christal(Imeson) Eagle