Winnette Anker

Winnette “Net” Anker, nee DeYoung, age 102, of South Holland, IL, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, May 12, 2020. Winnette was the oldest of five children born to William and Alice DeYoung. William was a farmer who lived and farmed on the corner of Rt. 6 and South Park Avenue all his life. Winnette’s great-grandfather, Hendrik DeYoung was one of the first settlers in South Holland. Winnette wed Henry Anker on October 4, 1940. Henry, a metallurgist and ping pong champ, passed away in 1990 after suffering from Parkinsonism. Winnette devoted her time solely to caring for him as he suffered for 20 years.

Winnette is survived by two children, Wanda (James) Veld and Mark Anker. Three grandchildren and their families Kurt and late Sandy Veld, Jack and Susan Veld (Carly, Jack, Annie) and Amy and Jeff Van Drunen (David (Candice), Paige (Patrick) Avila, and Hilary).  Many dear nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by her siblings: late Henry (late Anne) DeYoung, late Genevieve (late Paul) Vlietstra, late Harry Joe (late Mae) DeYoung, and the late Willis DeYoung.

Winnette loved the Lord with all her heart. She enjoyed sewing and after Henry passed away started quilting. This grew into quite a hobby and she decided to teach quilting at church to anyone willing to learn. She had a desire to sew baby quilts for P.A.S.S. (Pregnancy Aid South Suburbs). As of now, many quilts have been given to P.A.S.S.  She also volunteered at Ingalls Hospital for over 25 years, sewing stuffed toys for pediatrics and knitting caps for new babies.

She was raised in the Christian Reformed Church and joined First Reformed Church of South Holland when she married Henry. Her church was very important to her and she taught Sunday School, Catechism, and belonged to the Ladies Guild.

A private family visitation will be held Saturday, May 16, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane, Dyer, IN.  Private interment Oak Ridge Cemetery – Lansing, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to Elim Christian Services (13020 Central Ave., Crestwood, IL 60418) or P.A.S.S. (3116 Ridge Rd., Lansing, IL 60438). We encourage you to leave a message of condolence for the family on our online guestbook at www.smitsfh.com. For more information, please call 708-333-7000.