Obituary of Maria Berghout (Van der Steen)

Maria Adriana (Van der Steen) Berghout, passed away peacefully at the John M. Parrott Centre on November 2, 2023 at the age of 95. She was born on February 4, 1928, in Pernis, Netherlands, to Leendert and Cornelia (Noordzij) Van der Steen and was the youngest of nine children.

Maria moved to Canada in 1950 following her marriage to Leendert Berghout, also from Pernis. She resided over sixty years in Wilton, Ontario, raising a large family in the rural community that she so loved. There she was active as a 4-H leader, vacation bible school teacher and later a longtime member and leader of the Womens’ Institute. At home she was a passionate gardener and bird lover. Her recipe for Boterkoek is legendary in the family.

Maria was an active member of the Kingston Christian Reformed church, where she sang soprano in the choir and played an early role in forming the Ladies’ Society.

Loving mother of Corry Berghout, Cornel Berghout (Debbie Young), Vera Way, Marlene Berghout (Yves Tessier), and the late Leo Berghout, Betty Berghout and Jack Berghout. Oma to Derek Berghout, Casey Berghout Held, John Haig, Ben Haig, Andrew Berghout, Stacey Way, Tyler Way, Alex Tessier, Theo Tessier and the late Josh Berghout and has ten Great Grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and siblings.

Thanks to the staff of the John M. Parrott Centre for the caring support provided to Mom, particularly in her final days. The family will receive friends at Payne Funeral Home in Odessa on Thursday, November 9, 2023 from 4-6 pm. Funeral Service will be held at the First Christian Reformed Church, 310 Kingscourt Ave., Kingston on Friday, November 10, 2023 at 11 am. Interment Wilton Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Wilton Community Hall in Wilton.

For those desiring, memorial donations to the First Christian Reformed Church or the Wilton Community Hall would be appreciated by the family.

Please share your memories and condolences to the family.