It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Johanna Kroeg Driessen, who was born on December 29, 1927, in Asten, North Brabant, the Netherlands, to Wilhelmus and Hubertina Driessen. She was one of nine children and is survived by her beloved sister, Tineke. Johanna passed away peacefully on October 10, 2025, in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada.

Johanna was the devoted mother of Harold Kroeg, Bettina Ann Abendroth (Tammy), and Joanne Kroeg, and was predeceased by her husband, Jacobus Kroeg, and two of her children, Jacobus Kroeg (Jake) and Carla Diane Kroeg. She was an Oma to Lisa, Sherry, Mandy, and Jozef, and an Over-Oma to Ayden, Charlene, and Rieker. Her love and optimism will live on through them.

Johanna lived a remarkable and full life. A Dutch World War II veteran, she often shared vivid stories of her experiences during the war and of growing up in the Netherlands stories that reflected her strength, resilience, and sense of humor. Her first job was X-raying soldiers during the war, which she would often joke was the best job she ever had.

After the war, Johanna traveled throughout Europe, cherishing the beauty and history of each place she visited. She maintained a close connection with her relatives in the Netherlands, keeping strong family ties and traditions alive. She especially loved when family came to visit from the Netherlands, which always brought her great joy.

In her professional life, Johanna trained as a psychiatric nurse in England, where she learned the importance of treating patients with respect and compassion. After immigrating to Canada, she worked as a psychiatric nurse and later became a skilled real estate agent.

On her very first day in Canada, while looking for where to buy stamps, fate stepped in — she met the love of her life, Jacobus Kroeg. From that chance meeting began a lifelong partnership built on love, laughter, and devotion. Together they raised a beautiful family and created a home filled with warmth and joy.

Johanna was a proud member of the Dutch Luncheon Club and the Port Credit Legion, taking part in many community events. Each year, she had the honor of laying the wreath in Port Credit on Remembrance Day, an act of respect and remembrance that was important to her.

Johanna was truly a social butterfly-optimistic, friendly, and loved by everyone who met her. She loved sitting out front of her home, talking to people and waving as they went by, enjoying both the neighborhood and the wildlife. Her joy for life, her laughter, and her kindness brightened every room she entered.

She will be remembered for her strength, compassion, and zest for life. Though she has left this world, her spirit and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on October 28, 2025, at Turner & Porter Funeral Home, located at 1981 Dundas Street West, Mississauga, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories in honor of Johanna's beautiful life.