Rena Wester, 94, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister and friend passed on to her heavenly home with her family beside her on Monday, August 27, 2018, in Lynden, Washington.
Rena was born as "Renske" Dykstra in the province of Tzum, Friesland, in Holland on June 17, 1924, to Johannes and Janke Dykstra as one of 6 children. Four sisters and one brother provided endless hours of companionship. Her childhood was filled with numerous pleasant memories of a simple upbringing in tumultuous times. Her unwavering faith believed in the Lord's provisions which were evidenced in her life over and over again. She met her husband, Simon "Siem" Wester, while working for a large household on a country dairy farm near Hitzum. Rena did not realize it at the time that her life with Simon would be filled with many adventures. Shortly after marrying, in August of 1949, Simon and Rena relocated to Indonesia where they started their family. After leaving Indonesia, there was a brief return to Holland followed by a permanent immigration to the United States of America. Rena faithfully devoted herself to her husband and family of 6 children while helping Simon fulfill his dream of becoming a dairy farmer. They originally settled in southern California and later farmed in Mount Vernon, Washington. Rena was a faithful member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Mount Vernon for many years. Her unconditional love and steadfast prayers were cherished by all who knew her. Her talent for handcrafted items was a unique gift which graced many homes.

Rena was preceded in death by her husband, Simon, and is survived by her six children: (five girls and one boy just like her own family growing up) Jennie Meenderinck and husband Vern, Will Wester and wife Helen, Ruth Hofland and husband Carl, Joanna Wester, Helena Wester, Carol Geertsma and husband Rob, numerous grandchildren and several great grandchildren.
She also leaves behind one sister and numerous nephews and nieces in Holland, and a sister-in –law, Tina Dykstra, in Lynden.
Rena's final five years were spent at the Lynden Manor where she was compassionately and lovingly cared for by the dedicated staff.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Mt. Vernon Christian School or to the Whatcom County Hospice organization.
A private family graveside will be held on Monday, September 3, 2018 at 10:00am at Hawthorne Memorial Park, Mount Vernon, WA with a Memorial Service following at 11:00am for family and friends in the chapel at Hawthorne Funeral Home. Reverend Monte Ruble will be officiating the services for the family.6/17/1924