Ann Hoekstra

Ann Sharon (Braaksma) Hoekstra, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, went to heaven with family by her side on November 24, 2024, at age 78. Ann was born on June 27, 1946, in Beaver Dam, WI, the daughter of Albert and Bessie (Vander Galien) Braaksma. She graduated from Central Wisconsin Christian in 1964. Ann married William J. Hoekstra on July 30, 1965. The couple lived in Waupun their entire married life.

Ann was a loving and dedicated mother, grandmother, and community member. She worked for CESA 6 and the Waupun School District for many years in the Special Education Department and Library, retiring in 2007. She was a member of the First Christian Reformed Church in Waupun. Ann was known for her compassion, unshakeable faith, and love for Jesus. She enjoyed teaching Bible studies, including the Community Table bible study, Coffee Break, and a Friendship Bible study for children and adults with disabilities. Many of her students were lifelong friends.

Ann found her purpose in uplifting and helping others and she loved volunteering. Ann spent many hours at the Community Table, hosting a tea, leading a Bible study, and helping serve and host the weekly Friday meal. She considered many of her guests as friends. Ann served on the Waupun Food Pantry board and as a Hospice volunteer. Ann liked writing and was a member of a writer’s club. She enjoyed sharing her stories in nursing homes and assisted living residences.

Ann felt blessed to have four wonderful grandchildren who gave her so much joy in life.

Ann is survived by her husband Bill of 59 years; her son Gregory (Stacey) Hoekstra of Menasha, grandchildren Gideon (Laura) and Madeline Hoekstra; daughters Gretchen Hoekstra and Heather Hoekstra of Waupun; and son Alex (Laura) Hoekstra of Waupun, grandchildren Mackenzie and Brock Hoekstra. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Barb Hoekstra; sister Wanda Bossenbroek; brother Sam Braaksma; brother-in-law Byron (Pat) Hoekstra, and several nieces and nephews.

Ann was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Bessie Braaksma; her in-laws, Alvina and William C. Hoekstra; a brother, Albert Braaksma; sisters-in-law, Elaine Braaksma and Evelyn Braaksma; and a nephew, Larry Bossenbroek.

Funeral services for Ann Hoekstra will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at noon at First Christian Reformed Church in Waupun, with Pastor Barry Lang officiating. Burial will be held at Forest Mound cemetery. Visitation will take place on Friday, November 29, 2024 at Werner-Harmsen Funeral Home in Waupun from 5:00-7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at the church from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Amy Muchow and Julie Roets for the exceptional care they provided for Ann. The family would also like to thank the UW Hospital specialists and FDL SSM Hospice for their care and support.

Ann was passionate about helping those in need. In her honor, donations will be directed to Beautiful Response (providing education and basic needs to orphans and vulnerable children in Uganda) and the St. Vincent de Paul local Waupun emergency assistance program.