Bertha Mouw, 100 years of age, went home to be with her Lord on Sunday, April 5,
2009, at Regency on Whidbey Harbor Care in Oak Harbor.
Bertha was born in Leota, Nobles County, Minn., on Jan. 17, 1909, to Fred and Wilhelmina Hofkamp. She went on to attend several institutions of higher learning, including Mankato State College, from which she received her teacher's certificate. Bertha married Henry Mouw on June 9, 1931. She taught school in Leota, Woodstock and Wilmont, Minn., for a number of years, beginning her career in a one-room schoolhouse. When the family moved to Oak Harbor in 1957, she opened a kindergarten in her home, later moving it to North Whidbey Christian School.
Bertha continued teaching at the Christian school, eventually retiring in 1986 at the age of 77, from a school where her grandson Randy Mouw was serving as principal. Bertha's entire career in education, spanning 57 years, was dedicated to sharing the wisdom she possessed with literally thousands of students. She considered each child a gift from God, whose life she had the privilege to impact. A highlight of each school year was a year-end program in which all of the students participated. This was a very patriotic conclusion, complete with costumes for the children.
Bertha's quest for learning continued throughout her life. She was an ardent reader, and loved to recite poetry. She also enjoyed music and loved playing her baby grand piano. Quilting, doll making and playing games were activities of great interest to her. She took pleasure in nature, including wild flowers, roses and birds. Bertha's active life was enhanced by a passion for the political scene. She was well-informed and educated on many topics.
Bertha was young at heart throughout her life. She loved socializing and visiting with family and friends. She was a life-long member of the Reformed Church in America, both at Leota, and then at the First Reformed Church in Oak Harbor. Her personal faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life, and she consistently and unashamedly sought to let others see that He was the Guiding Light in her life.
Bertha and Henry raised six children: the late Harlan Mouw (Gloria), Fred Mouw (Hilda) of Anacortes, Joyce DeJong (Leroy) and Mignon Zylstra (Robert), both of Oak Harbor, Bonnie DeJong (Ron) of Orange City, Iowa; Bruce Mouw (Cathy) of Stanwood. She also is survived by 19 grandchildren, 46 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren; also numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. In addition to her son Harlan, who passed away on March 10, 2008, she was also preceded in death by her husband Henry on Oct. 12, 1969, and by her sister Margaret Gunnink on September 6, 1991.
05 Apr 2009 Whidbey News Times Whidbey WA