Ans MANSVELD-DE GROOT Obituary

Ans is the cousin of my dad (Ronald de Groot). We met in The Netherlands in Voorburg during her stay a few years ago. From that moment on we already had interesting and open conversations together.An amazing connection. During my stay of 6 months in Queensland, Australia I had the great chance to see Ans in New Zealand with my dad and a friend. She was the best host we could have had. Thanks to her we had an amazing experience and explored the whole Northern Island, meeting lovely people like her neighbors Reno and Val. She loves traveling and always toke the energy in the greatest mood to show us around and to join us on our adventures. Ans was there too when a friend and I went Skydiving in Taupo, she loved our experience and shared this moment with us like she was going and doing it herself. In the nights at here lovely "holiday" home in Oakland we always had the best conversations until deep in the night. She is so open and happy to share her thoughts. I feel like she is a person in my Dutch family where I had one of the best connections with. From our trip in NZ I got a lovely souvenir to remind me of this wonderful country and culture and for the spirit of protection. This Maori handcraft is hanging above my bed here in Brussels, Belgium and will always remind me of Ans and our experiences.

Ans due to our similar passion: Traveling, we did not always had the chance to send each other emails, but you'll will always be remembered and in my memory, you always cared about everyone around you and shared your passion with many people. I'm glad I got to know you and this news came as very hard to my father and me. But you always enjoyed everything and it happened during what you loved the most ... traveling, I don't know where you a traveling to right now but I will never forget you!

Love,


Jan-Carel de Groot

We have known Ans for 34 years, we were introduced to Ans by our neighbours and had contact sinds. Ans was from Amsterdam before she emigrated to NZ . We always exchanged stories I also came from Amsterdam . We had a wonderfull time in Bali with Ans at Renee and Amy's wedding, she took us on a great day trip, we had a great time and lots of laughs.
We will always remember you,
From Els and Yp Teensma

I have also had the privilege of knowing Ans for nearly 45 years. Val and Rino introduced Ans and Col to me not long after they all met when they purchased adjoining land in Torbay so I have been lucky to have been included in many get togethers e.g. children's birthday parties, drinks on the deck and only two weeks ago her 75th birthday party at Dutch Delight. Also I met up with Val and Ans down at the French Markets for a coffee only 10 days ago and Ans and I both had French Toast and coffee. I always loved hearing Ans telling us about her life in Holland and eating her famous bitterbolen, apple strudel and pot roasted beef. We used to talk about our children who have all travelled and spent long periods overseas and recently we have chatted about our grandchildren and used to send each other photos by email. Ans really loved being in touch by email as it opened up a whole new world for her as it made it easier to be in touch with old friends and relations in Holland – and especially with Eric, Tamara, Renee and Aimee and the grandchildren Faith, Gabby and Evie.
Beautiful memories
Just as you were, you always will be
Someone special in my memory.
Rest in peace Ans
Love Glenys, Charlotte, Paul and Andrew and Sam.

Ans we have so many wonderful memories with you. From Fish and Chips at your house, holding the girls for the first time, Ruby's Clogs you bought her and of course the wonderful Bali Trip! Our most recent memory, the lovely meal we all had at the Dutch Cafe. You were much loved and will be sadly missed Love Derek, Sarah, Ruby & Pippa xxxx

Ans, you were my other Mum. We loved your positive attitude to life and your willingness to join in with anything we suggested. You were part of our family and you were so happy for us when we were planning our trip to Europe. It is awful that we cannot be at your farewell, because we are in France, but we will be there in spirit. Our thoughts go to Eric and Rene and families. Bye, beautiful lady, you will be missed....

Thank you for your warm and loving friendship. Thelma one of the old girls.north Shore

Ans, you were like another mum to Vanessa and I, we have had so many great times, growing up and also in recent times with our children that loved you like a grandmother (and called you Oma). You were always upbeat and fun, making the most of every moment.Long Bay beach will always be a special place for me and I will remember you there in the glorious sunshine, strolling along the beach with Rhys and Jake, chatting to me about my upcoming UK trip. I believe you were more excited than me. And that is what I will miss the most, your joy and interest in everybodies lives. Love Ingrid, Jim, Rhys and Eliza

Ans what a beautiful loving women to have known you were kind and caring and very real about life and the journey we all are on, sadly yours has been cut short in our eyes far to soon for such a vibrant women! You will be an angel whose name we will know as you were on earth I feel sure to many! A Wonderful and loving friend to all the Vermeer family you will be forever missed xxx

Ans, you have left a huge hole. Such a lovely person and so full of vitality. We are going to miss you.

Sonia Harvey
xxx

Ans, you will always be in our life. Forty five years of friendship and so many beautiful days to remember. There was never enough hours in the day when we were together.
Love from Val, Rino, Vanessa, Ingrid, Jake, Rhys, Eliza and Leo XXX

We knew Ans as a very vivid and warm person. Whenever we visited New Zealand she was always there. We highly appreciated the care she took for our ant Jannie. She will be missed.
Astrid, Bas, Annemarie and Pim Kastelein

Such a lovely lady. I am so glad that I knew her. I was her 'computer man' and she was such a willing and delightful learner as she mastered the art of emailing and skypeing with such pleasure.