- Date Of Birth: October 21, 1939
- Date Of Death: January 23, 2016
- State: Utah
Rigtje (Riekie) Siekman-Shields
21 October Groningen, Holland – 23 January 2016, Ogden, Utah
Sad, but grateful for what she meant to us during her life, we are sad to inform you that my beloved sister, our dear aunt Rigtje (Riekie) Siekman-Shields passed away at the age of 76 years. She found her peace with her heavenly father.
Riekie was born on 21 October 1939 in Groningen, Holland. She was the 7th of nine children. She was the daughter of Egbert Siekman and Jantje Tichgelaar. It was a difficult time. It became war and her parents divorced. Her mother was alone with nine children and it was hard during times of food shortage, poverty and uncertainty. This terrible period and the memories of it, Riekie could not let go. She built a wall around her, but who could break through, she loved with her entire heart.
At an early age she went to work. She worked day and night for a doctor and this was hard work, at which time she lived at the care center and tended to those entrusted to her care day and night.
In 1965/1966 she served a mission in the Netherlands.
Riekie wanted more in her life. In 1967 she emigrated all alone to America. She worked as an au pair at home. Later, she helped a woman she built a special relationship with. This woman was a mother for Riekie. When she passed away it hurt Riekie a lot and she was alone again.
She met Robert William Shields and they married on March 16th 1974. Bob and Rieke lived in Scarsdale, New York. They built their own home. With regret they did not have children. She loved children al lot and started a day-care at home.
Unfortunately, Bob became ill. Riekie took care of him herself until the end. After Bob died, Riekie moved to Ogden, Utah. She had a secluded life.
She moved for the last time in 2007 where she lived up to the time of her death. She always has been a hardworking, independent woman. She still tried to rebuild her home herself, but her body was not able to. When she became old, she refused to accept this. She also would not accept help. It was very, very difficult for her. Finally, her body gave up and she found her rest.
We want to thank all friends, acquaintances, neighbors, and members of the church for their help and support the last years. Although it was very difficult for Riekie to accept help.
