It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of WILMA JOHANNA VANDENBERG (née Williamson) in Fort MacLeod, on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the age of 74 years.

Wilma was the beloved wife of Evert for 54 years. Together they lovingly raised three children: Tricia Harris (Brian), Tracey Vandenberg (Luis Rey Rosadio), and Cameron Vandenberg. Wilma was a cherished Oma to her four grandchildren, Sirrah, Ethan, Tristyn and AJ. She is also survived by both her sisters and their husbands, Deanne Perreault (Bill) of Cranbrook, B.C. and Reta Anderson (Les) of Claresholm, and her sisters- and brothers-in-law in the Netherlands: Greet & Henry, Korrie, Rob, Margriet & Koop, Siety & Guido, Anneke (of Italy), Betsy & Jacob, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and -nephews on both sides. Wilma was predeceased by her parents, Bill and Bertha Williamson, and her parents-in-law, Evert and Riemke van den Berg, sister-in-law, Greet van den Berg, and brothers-in-law, Herman van den Berg and Enzo Settipani.

Born on August 9, 1951 in Fort MacLeod, Wilma Johanna Williamson was the eldest daughter of Bill and Bertha, and older sister to Deanne and Reta. The seeds of Wilma’s lifelong passions and hobbies were planted during her childhood – particularly her love of animals, gardening, and working outdoors, and sewing. Wilma described her childhood as happy and contented. As a kid, she loved watching the baby calves romp around in the spring, riding horses, and exploring the river bottom. She was also fortunate to meet two of her lifelong friends (Barb and Melody) as a child, and the three of them have worked to stay connected across the years and the miles. Wilma attended school in Granum and Fort Macleod, graduating from F.P. Walshe in 1969.

In 1970, she met the love of her life, Evert, and they were married on May 19, 1972. They were blessed with three children: Tricia, Tracey and Cameron. Their dream had always been to farm or ranch in one way or another. In 1993 this dream became a reality when they purchased the family farm from the estate. In 1994, after waiting on a prospective grower list for over 22 years, they obtained their first quota from the Alberta Chicken Producers and built a broiler barn. Twenty years later, due to health reasons, they made the agonizing decision to end their agricultural careers and sold the farm, except for the acreage (so they would keep a little piece of home). The acreage was always her favourite place to be – an oasis of trees and flowers, and peace and quiet.

Wilma loved being Oma to her four grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to be with them. She often travelled to Lethbridge (later Coaldale) or Red Deer to babysit, celebrate milestones, or simply enjoy time together. Whether she was sharing stories, lending a helping hand, or creating special memories through everyday moments, being their Oma was one of the greatest joys of her life. Her love, kindness, and quiet strength will remain with them always.

Though our hearts are heavy with her loss, we are grateful for the love she shared so generously throughout her life. Her gentle spirit, unwavering love for her family, and appreciation for the simple joys of life will be remembered always.

Wilma had a strong faith in her Lord & Savior Jesus Christ, who promised He would return. Wilma is sleeping, waiting for that day when the graves will be opened. I Corinthians 15. The promise in Revelations 21 was her hope during difficult times: “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, there will be no more death, neither shall there be mourning; no more tears, no more pain, for the former things have passed away.”

A very special thank you to Dr. Steven Beekman, who has gone above and beyond his professional duty in providing such compassionate care for Wilma, as well as guiding us throughout this difficult process.

A big thank you to the staff at the Community Support Beds in Macleod for their exceptional care for Wilma. From management, to the nurses, healthcare workers, cleaning staff, everyone treated Wilma like family!

A Memorial Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. with Robert Grabinsky officiating. The Memorial Service will be live-streamed and may be viewed through Wilma’s obituary on the Cornerstone website.

A Private Family Interment will be held in the Church of God 7th Day Cemetery, Acme, AB, at a later date.

 

To send a condolence, please visit www.cornerstonefuneralhome.com

• Date : 2026-08-01
• Location : Fort MacLeod, Alberta