Nell Bakels, a cherished mother and friend, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2025, in Bradenton, Florida. Nell was born on December 16, 1937, in Zwijndrecht, Netherlands. Her nurturing presence touched many throughout her life.
Nell was preceded in death by her loving husband of over 60 years, Gerry Bakels. In 1962, she and Gerry immigrated to the United States with their two eldest daughters. They were welcomed by members of the First Christian Reformed Church in Salt Lake City, Utah. Church members became an extended family far from the picturesque, quaint streets of Zwijndrecht. Her children often comment on the courage and faith needed for such a move. It was Nell who saw the possibilities of a life in the United States.
Nell's legacy is lovingly carried forward by her devoted family. She was the proud mother of Elizabeth Gould (husband Bryan), Marijke Rossi (husband Alex), Laura Thomsin (husband Eric), Renae Curtz (husband Mark), Jerry Bakels (wife Ania). She was very proud of her grandchildren – Water Gould, Charles Gould, Robert Gould, Lizzie McNicholas, Lynda Rossi, Jeff Rossi, Jennifer Ridd, Madison Rossi, Kate Thomsin, Orion Thomsin, Nicole Curtz, Lauren Curtz, Ryan Curtz, Julia Bakels, Serena Bakels, as well as her 12 great-grandchildren. Her grandchildren will cherish the memories and life lessons imparted by their beloved "Oma."
For over two decades, Nell dedicated her professional life to the patients at Wasatch Villa Nursing Home where she was proud to work as a physical therapy aid. She brought light to those recovering from life's unexpected turns, offering a caring hand and a compassionate heart. Nell's generosity knew no bounds; she was always there to support her coworkers – whether they needed a little help with extra groceries or a new set of scrubs. Her commitment to personal growth was evident as she continued her education to better serve those in her care.
A woman of refined taste, Nell relished in discovering the finer things in life. She would return from her "little drives" with a new trinket, Sunday dress, or a sparkling new addition to her jewelry collection. Her home was adorned with such treasures, each piece holding a story and memory.
Nell's passion for nature's beauty was evident in the gardens she cultivated and blooming African Violets in the windowsill. To the delight of her grandchildren, the wildflower garden she planted became a sanctuary for many critters and creatures – hummingbirds, quail, cardinals and deer were Nell's favorites.
Evenings in the Bakels' home were often filled with the sound of the soft clicking of knitting needles as she watched television. Her hands expertly crafted beautiful sweaters that would eventually grace the boutiques in Salt Lake and Park City, Utah. Her skillful hands never missed a stitch, even as she commented on the misadventures of downhill skiers on the screen.
Card games were a lifelong pleasure for Nell. Nearly every weekend she and Gerry hosted a card game at their home. While fiercely competitive, she was known to let her beloved husband win a game or two.
Her hobby began with Klaverjassen when Nell lived in the Netherlands. In her later years, Nell loved to play Hand and Foot with her dear friends in Mesquite, Nevada.
Nell had many wonderful friends through her church community in Salt Lake and in her retirement community in Mesquite.
Her spirit lives on in the lives she touched and love she shared. Her remarkable journey from the quaint streets of Zwindrecht to the foothills of the Salt Lake Valley and the desert community of Mesquite Nevada are a testament to a life well lived.
Her warmth, kindness and unwavering faith will forever be with those who loved her.
Her family would like to extend thanks to her friends and neighbors in Mesquite who supported Nell in various ways – trips to cards, runs to the grocery store, medical appointments and the occasional trip to the hospital. We are so grateful for your love and kindness.
We also extend our appreciation to the many doctors and nurses who cared for her in her final days. Nell's daughters extend our thanks to our dear brother, Jerry, wife Ania and granddaughter, Serena, for welcoming Nell into their home and providing care and love in her final months of life.
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, 26th Street Chapel, 5624 26th Street West, Bradenton, FL, 34207, is in charge of arrangements.
