Clasiena Maria VandenAkker, 85, Traverse City, formerly of Albion, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 14, 2015, at Bay Ridge Assisted Living. Clasiena was born on August 7, 1929, in Eindhoven, Netherlands, to the late Martines Johannes and Helena (Scholtens) Smits. She was married to Martin VandenAkker on February 14, 1954, in the Netherlands. He preceded her in death on June 30, 2003. Clasiena moved to Canada in 1954, then to the United States in 1957, and became a U.S. Citizen in 1963. She always said becoming a U.S. Citizen was the third proudest moment of her life, behind only the birth of her two sons. Over the years, Clasiena worked as caretaker for many people. Above all, spending time with her family was her greatest joy. She will also be remembered for her great sense of humor and that she kept it right to the end.

Clasiena is survived by her two sons; Martin (Lynne) VandenAkker of Traverse City and John (Denise) VandenAkker of Alto, Michigan; two grandchildren; Hannah and Micah VandenAkker. Also surviving are a brother and two sisters; John (Linda) Smits of Sturgis, Michigan; Leny (Nico) van de Bersselaar and Alie Mikkers both of the Netherlands.

She was preceded in death by a sister; Betsie Faber.

In accordance with Clasiena's wishes, cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

The VandenAkker family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the caring staff of Bay Ridge Assisted Living for their loving care of Clasiena.

Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to perform an act kindness towards another or a memorial donation to the charity of your choice.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories with Clasiena's family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.