Obituary of Albertine Retel

Albertine A Retel Goshen Albertine "Bertie" Retel passed away Saturday, September 30 at Valley View Nursing Home. Bertie was born January 12, 1923 in The Hague, The Netherlands to Agatha and Albertoni Broeksma. Beginning at the age of 16, she witnessed the horrors of WW II barely surviving four years of Nazi occupied Holland. During this time she met a handsome Dutch soldier Jan P. Retel who smuggled food to her and her family. They married in 1945 and after having two children Jan and Eveline decided to emigrate to the United States where they settled in Goshen and had another son Gary. Bertie and in later years, "Oma" was a kind and generous person quick to smile. She always enjoyed a good meal especially if served to her. With her dry humor, she got along with everyone but preferred the company of those that agreed with her and followed her lead. She enjoyed being the center of attention as she was by her husband Jan who predeceased her in 2006 after 61 years of marriage. She was determined and strong and walked tall with spirit and purpose. She loved animals. She loved the Ocean. Our beloved Oma leaves behind and will be greatly missed by Jan A. and wife, Paula Retel, Douglasville, GA; Eveline White and partner, Bill Henry, Goshen, NY; Gary Retel and partner, Leo Rosas, Los Angeles, CA; granddaughters Jackie La Costa and husband CJ; Lori Bonito and husband Greg. In addition she leaves behind five great grand children; Joey, Jason and Carolina La Costa; Alex and Melanie Bonito and three step grandchildren Cole and Abby Borden and Sofia Rosas. Private memorial service will be held at a later date. The family would like to thank the professional caregivers at Valley View Nursing Home who cared for Bertie this past year with kindness and love. Arrangements under the care of the Donovan Funeral Home, Inc., Goshen. To leave a condolence visit www.donovanfunerals.com