Adriana "Jean" Teuntje (Willeyns) den Otter

Adriana den Otter, known to many simply as “Jean”, passed away peacefully at the age of 96. Born in Rotterdam in 1929, Jean experienced a vibrant and free childhood, until the war changed everything. With her father as a Merchant Seaman during WWII, and her city occupied and under rationing, life looked very different. Though she would occasionally share a story from that time, Jean’s enduring resilience and ever-present positivity left little trace of hardship. Her strength carried her through life’s challenges with grace. As a teenager, Jean biked everywhere, including one fateful ride to the park where she met a handsome young man, Jacob (Jake). He insisted on accompanying her home to ensure she arrived safely. That ride began a lifelong love story.

Jean worked for Holland America cruise line, diligently saving her wages with a dream in mind. When Jake immigrated to Canada in 1953, Jean’s adventurous spirit and deep love propelled her across the ocean to follow. From cruise ship employee to passenger, she set sail from Rotterdam to Halifax, took a cross-country train to Vancouver, and arrived in Jake’s arms just in time for Thanksgiving weekend. Together, they took the ferry to Victoria and began their life together. They married in Nanaimo on October 23, 1953, and soon after welcomed their sons, Dirk (1955) and Tony (1958). Jean cherished her role as a mother and created a warm, welcoming home in the Lakehill area. Known affectionately as “Mrs. D” to her boys’ friends, she was a quiet yet constant source of encouragement and pride in her children’s lives, always cheering them on and celebrating their achievements. Family was everything to Jean, especially her grandchildren. She found joy in family camping trips across Vancouver Island, camping in Osoyoos, and traveling back to the “old country” to visit relatives. After retiring with Jake in Osoyoos in 1988, their home became a place of hospitality and laughter for friends and family alike. Jean loved working with her hands: crocheting, knitting, needlepoint, and making her delicious homemade soups. She also enjoyed playing bingo and time at the casino at the slot machines. In later years, she found pleasure in doing puzzles with her friends at Casa Loma, often with a glass of wine nearby. Known for her quick wit, infectious laughter, and remarkable memory, Jean had a way of making people feel seen and remembered. Her kindness, self-deprecating humor, and storytelling brought joy to many, and her warmth left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Jean is survived and deeply missed by her sons Dirk (Gayle) and Tony (Stephanie), grandchildren Jillian (Peter), Kale and Riley (Savanna) and Stephanie’s boys Ryan (Laila), Mark (Hayley & family) and Eric (Emma). Great-granddaughters Quinn and Llewyn, as well as numerous friends and extended family. As per Jean’s wishes, no memorial service will be held. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Casa Loma and VIHA for their compassionate care during Jean’s later years. A special thanks to Dr. Lissa Benson, whose care and friendship meant so much to Jean, and who was one of the reasons she chose to remain in Courtenay.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the BC Children’s Hospital or a charity of your choice, would be greatly appreciated.

We won the lottery with you Mom / Oma and not to worry, we will keep playing your numbers!