Many years ago, a friend passed on this poem to Mom who carefully rewrote it and shared it with me. Her philosophy of life...

I would rather have one blossom from the garden of a friend,
Then to have the choicest flowers when my stay on Earth must end,
I would rather have one little word in kindness said to me,
Then flattery when my heart is still and life has ceased to be.

I would rather have a tender smile from friends I know are true,
Then tears shed around my casket when this earth I bid adieu,
So bring me all your flower today whether pink or white or red,
I’d rather have one blossom now then a cartload when I’m dead.

Known best as Mini, Oma, Nanny, Moeder, and the lady who rolled her R’s (a legacy of her Dutch heritage), Mini (Hermina) Porter (Hoogenkamp) passed away on Thursday July 1st, 2021. 

A war bride from Holland, she arrived at Pier 21 on the Queen Mary and, quite literally, built a life from the ground up. Mom never lost her love for Holland. She and the kids enjoyed regular parcels from back home sent by her beloved father: whatever money he could spare, Dutch licorice and treats, and thick woolen blankets to get the family through the cold Canadian winters. And though times were tough, (she often recalled carrying water by hand for 17 years and living on 5 dollars a week) her family never went without. Christmas was always a to-do as she was Santa to everyone. She was generous with all she had, giving to anyone in the family, community or a friend who was in need and she was appreciative to all that was given to her. She was known for her incredible talent for cooking and baking, the best homemade bread and desserts ever. Many would have enjoyed her treats through events served by the Ladies Auxiliary, which she served on for many years. Mini was most content watching Coronation Street, reading the Chronicle Herald and sneaking a piece or two of KFC (while wearing her off-the-shoulder nightgown of course). Everyone enjoyed meeting Mini. She had a wicked sense of humour and was forever telling stories of the past. She loved us all and we loved her.

Predeceased by, husband Allan, sons Raymond, Sydney and Roger, great grandson Kyle, and sister Gerrie Kamp.

Survived by sons, Steve, Truro, NS, Allan (Kim), River Hebert, NS, Paul (Amy), Fort Lawrence, NS; daughters, Jean Gray (Hazen) and Darlene (Hugh), Tidnish Bridge, NS; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sister Dinie Gerritsen, Almelo, Netherlands

Special thanks to daughter-in-law, Brenda, Lois Ripley, Susan Smith, Rhonda Sangster and her best canine buddy, Jake.

Arrangements are under the care and guidance of Jones Family Funeral Centre, 70 Church Street, Amherst (902-667-8777).  A private time of visitation for her family will be held at the funeral home on Sunday.  A family graveside service will take place Tuesday, July 6 in the River Hebert Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Mini may be made to the Salvation Army or charity of choice.  Or, maybe, take a blossom to a friend while they can still know your love... Mom would like that best.

Sharing of memories and condolences, may be sent to the family by visiting the online memorial at www.jonesfamilyfuneralcentre.ca or through the Jones Family Funeral Centre Facebook Page.