On December 11, 2020 Augustina aka Christina Braaksma peacefully passed away and joined Willem Braaksma her loving husband of 60 years. Thanks to her wonderful Granddaughter and nurse Angela Conley using Zoom, family members throughout the United States were able to share Christina’s last remaining hours. Most important to Christina, a devoted Catholic, her last blessing from her priest was also shared with her family.

She is survived by her many loving Children, Fred (Diane) Braaksma, Anjes (Eric) Wilson, Judith Braaksma Judy, Tony Braaksma, Roy (Lori) Braaksma, Cherie (Vince) Provenzano, Philip (Margrett) Braaksma, and predeceased son Jimmy Braaksma. Mom was also blessed with many wonderful Grandchildren, Angela Conley, Jennifer Perry, Michelle Braaksma, Camille Wilson, Sarah Judy, Stephanie Judy, Jimmy Braaksma, Renee Taylor, Michael Braaksma, Chrissie Guevara, Chelsea Provenzano, Vincent Provenzano, Philip Braaksma, Casey Braaksma, Alexis Bolka, and Owen Braaksma. From here, the legacy extends with seventeen Great Grandchildren.

How do we begin to highlight the life of someone like Christina or Mom, to us and to many. What accomplishments could we possibly list for a woman whose life was so rich with experience and love. Mom was a force. Quite often, she was the sun, warming the lives of anyone she could reach, and those rays could reach around the world.

Her devotion to her husband was only matched by Willem’s (Poppy) devotion to her. They danced and sang through their lives no matter how much life pushed against them. With three children, they escaped from Indonesia to Holland, and then with two more, they were welcomed to the United States through the Catholic Church – a deed that forever cemented the church into their hearts. Shortly after, Mom and Poppy then welcomed their youngest three children.

Mom raised us to be who we are and to never fear the world. She encouraged us to take chances and be strong. So we did – knowing we had the support and love of the family behind us.

Mom welcomed everyone into her home and heart. She even insisted that many people call her “Mom.” She took care of her brothers and sisters as well. Bringing her sisters to the US and caring for them.

Mom found solace in her faith and prayers but still always asked questions – never fearing that understanding the Catholic religion could ever lessen her belief and love in Our Lord, which remains strong and steady.

Each and every grandchild had the rare privilege of sharing the joys and celebrations of life with their Gramma. And she made each one feel special and loved. She loved us through her cooking, her laughter, and most of all her dancing. She could turn any room into a dance floor.

Even in the twilight of her years, she wanted to be surrounded with joy and, of course, dancing. She played a role in cultivating the strength in each and every child, grandchild, and great grandchild.

She will be truly missed but always remembered. We know that she will be waiting for us with Poppy, dancing away until we meet again.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on February 19, 2021 at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church, 2300 S. Smithville Rd. Dayton, Ohio 45420. In lieu of flowers, please support and donate to Our Lady of Immaculate Conception – Mom’s church and second home.

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