Thea van der Ven

Thea Simons van der Ven left this world on Tuesday, October 6 to join Ted, Jacques, and numerous family and friends. She wrote that “dying was not the end but a new beginning for me.” Thea asked that memories of her life give us joy and not sorrow.

She was born in New York City on August 24, 1930, to parents Jacob and Henrica Simons. Her father hailed from Suriname and her mother was born in the Netherlands. She spent her early years living in both New York City and Rotterdam. Thea remained fiercely proud of her Dutch heritage.

Singing, dancing, laughing, storytelling, and acting were among her many passions. She lived life through her senses. For her, food was love. Her table was an altar to nourishment and celebration for body, soul, and spirit. Thea traveled the globe but no place brought greater pleasure than visits to Rockport, MA and Wingaersheek Beach.

As a graduate of SUNY Albany and Syracuse University, her career included teaching, speech pathology, psychotherapy, storytelling, and acting. A spiritual seeker, Thea spent many years in the study of poetry, literature, and the way of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Thea leaves behind two sons, Guido (Nancy) and Simon; four grandchildren, Cobus (Lauren), Ilona (Dave), Ian, and Grace; and four great grandchildren, Olive, Nox, Hazel, and Opal. Thea’s love and nurturing spirit extended well beyond blood. In truth, she leaves behind a much larger family than listed here.

To celebrate Thea’s life, a service will be held at All Saints Roman Catholic Church at 1340 Lancaster Ave, Syracuse on Saturday, November 21st. Calling hours will start at 10 AM with a mass beginning at 11 AM. A reception will follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Thea’s name can be made to Friends of Dorothy, 212 Wayne St, Syracuse, NY 13203, and All Saints Roman Catholic Church.