Van Fleet-Silvent, Marijke Joi
(4/01/73 - 2/19/14) fought a brave battle with triple-negative breast cancer. She graduated from Chaparral High (1991) in Scottsdale and earned a BA degree from Northern Arizona University in Broadcast Communication, with minors in Biology and Psychology. On October 24, 2008 Marijke married the love of her life, Edward F. Silvent. She worked as a reporter or TV anchor in AZ, TN, IN, and TX. Later she worked in public relations at Donate Life of Arizona, Arizona Game & Fish, and the Scottsdale Unified School District. She is survived by her husband, sons Edison (age 3) and Cajetan (age 1), parents Drs. David & Ella Van Fleet (Scottsdale), brother Dirk (Burbank, CA), and 105 year-old grandmother. Services and burial: February 26, 2014, Leesburg, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations for trust funds her 2 young sons or for payment of medical expenses: Ed Silvent, 826 Ferndale Terrace NE, Leesburg. VA 20176.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
A sweet girl gone way to young.
Nancy Bajer
Neighbor
February 18, 2024
Remembering all the happiness you gave us and all the light you brought to the world.
Karl Woods
Friend
February 18, 2023
You gave us so many happy memories. Miss you very much.
Karl Woods
February 18, 2022
Think of her and Hans so often. They both went to heaven only a day apart. Hugs!
Nancy Bajer
February 18, 2022
Remembering this beautiful soul I really hope your babies are thriving and your looking over them with pride may you be resting in paradise love from I´m a breast cancer survivor and got to know Marjike from one of the sites x
Julie
Other
February 18, 2022
I knew Marijke for a short time between High School and early college. I didn't realized she had passed until recently. It's nice to see she found love and had a family. She was too nice of a person to pass that early.
Fred Wertsching
Acquaintance
May 28, 2020
I love whenever her photos pop up on my "memories" on Facebook. The short time she spent here in College Station right before she left us was full of some true MJ life craziness. I will always remember her as the sweet nut from high school that never changed. Even when telling us about loosing her hair she had a way of trying to make others feel good. She hardly ever let us see her cry. She was a true Pink Warrior. I only hope he sons are learning how much their Mom leaves loved them. All of her friends loved them from afar and still miss them dearly.
Tara McAdams
Friend
February 23, 2020
Marijke was a wonderful person.I worked with her at the SUSD,and we all would go out to lunch together at the local Costco many times.She had a smile that would light up the room when she walked in...I miss those days with her, and my friends...I`m still sad to know she`s gone....
Joseph Zack
Coworker
February 22, 2020
Although its been 5 years, I still remember and miss that beautiful smile.
Mary Clark
Family
February 18, 2019
David, Ella, & Dirk:
Although I met Marijke only a handful of times, those times were full of laughs and smiles. Even on that horrible day of 9-11 when she was stuck here in Los Angeles, we all made the best of it and shared that terrible time with intense sorrow, deep conversation, and even a few laughs.
The last time I saw her, she was with child; and it warmed my heart to know that she had met someone special and was bringing new life onto this earth. We all had lunch and caught up on each other's life. It was a great time.
I feel extremely bad for my friend Dirk, who understandably is in a dark period in his life. I will do my best to try to make him laugh, when the time is right.
“May the most precious memories of a beautiful life bring comfort and peace.”
Francisco G. Rodriguez
April 3, 2014
Dear David, Ella, and Dirk: We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Marijke was a very special person who touched so many people in a positive way. There are no words to convey how sad we are, but know that we have all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
The Rodriguez Family
April 3, 2014
Dear Ed,
It is with deep remorse that I write this letter on behalf of Margaret and myself to express our deepest sympathy over the passing of Marijke. We have heard the stories of how she loved your children and the efforts she made to be a good mother and wife while fighting her illness. She is the epitome of love.
I know these have been troubling times for you. I can't imagine how you are able to deal with the pain over your loss. I hope that your faith will keep you strong so you are able to persevere through this challenge.
Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your children.
May Marijke rest in peace and may God give you the strength to deal with your loss.
Sincerely and with love,
Rich and Margaret Savner
April 2, 2014
Marijke, you have been taken away from us too soon. I was the second person your mom had your dad call to announce your arrival. I was thrilled for her; she went through a lot to conceive you. Over the years, your mom would send photos of you and Dirk. I will not forget the time I visited your family in Texas--how you fearlessly put a caterpillar in your palm to show me. I will not forget how beautiful you looked on your wedding day, so happy, so vibrant—that is how I want to remember you. I was so very happy for you and Ed. I will not forget how you, Dirk, and I conspired to surprise your mom on your grandmother's 100th birthday celebration. Edison and Cajetan are beautiful. Whenever I look at their photos, I see you, especially Edison.
Ella, David, Dirk, and Ed—my heartfelt condolence. Words cannot express the loss my heart feels.
Mary Dee
March 24, 2014
Ella Van Fleet
March 21, 2014
Ella Van Fleet
March 21, 2014
We are so sorry for you loss. Know that Marijke's spirit will live on in her family, especially her precious boys. When you are feeling down, remember this quote:
"Don't let the sorrow of having lost her, outweigh the joy of having had her."
-Anonymous
It has brought us peace and comfort when we've needed it most.
Sending our love,
Nick, Emily, Ben & Joseph Bonomo
March 20, 2014
Ella Van Fleet
March 20, 2014
Ella Van Fleet
March 20, 2014
Ella Van Fleet
March 20, 2014
Ed,
I was very sorry to read about the passing of your wife. God bless and keep you on this journey with your two sons.
Ann Marie Butchko Tarapchak
March 15, 2014
Marijke was my best friend in the sixth grade...one of us tall, lanky, graceful...the other chubby, bowl haircut, happy to be included. Both with 'weird names.'
We spent many hours exploring her wooded backyard, racing through the air on her family's ahead-of-its-time zip line, poking sticks in her backyard fountain, and marching through "Sword Valley" across from her house on Merry Oaks Drive.
It is hard to comprehend her departure from this earth at such a young and crucial age. I cannot imagine the pain for her husband, boys, parents and brother. I know Marijke's spirit is in heaven, and she is now pain free...but the work of "celebrating her life" instead of "mourning her loss" has only just begun for the people who loved her and need her.
I am praying for the Silvent and VanFleet families and for a cure to this devastating disease. Thank you for this opportunity to share. I will never forget Marijke.
Charis McEachern-Calhoon
March 14, 2014
My deepest condolences. Please give her sons a tight hug from me.
Liza Sanchez
March 12, 2014
I have known you since elementary school and you were a just ad nice and sweet then as you were at the end. I am so privileged that I was chosen to be among your circle of friends to take this journey with you. Although I would have rather spent the time exploring DC, but getting to reconnect was wort it. I am sorry you could not spend more time in Texas, I really was hoping you would have been laid to rest here with us
but your memory and bueaty and inner strength, along with you sense of humor will always be with us! Missing you!
t Cherie mcadams-west
March 12, 2014
Love is the only word that can possibly be said in times such as these. Far too young and beautiful Marijke is not only a dear friend but a loving Mother, loved daughter and sister but an inspiration, her strength and heart far exceed her time amongst us in physical form and although our time together was brief it was long enough to leave a lasting bond to endure until next we meet.
Momma and Papa Van Fleet, Dirk, Marjike's Husband and boys please receive all of our love, from our family who has also been through the worst please know that Marijke is now pure love and that love lives forever !
Besos,
Danny, Sofi, Lore,, Ale and Fer Romay
Fernando Romay
March 12, 2014
Words seem inadequate. I can't imagine the depth of your sorrow at this time, yet with faith in knowing that Marijke is free from pain now and with the angels above. She was an extraordinary person - so pretty and talented and passionate - who found and gave joy through living every day and loving her family and friends to the fullest. She will be missed by so many and never forgotten. With deepest sympathy for your loss.
Maureen OLeary
March 11, 2014
You are my only daughter-in-law, I, your sole father-in-law. On your last visit you asked that we take a photo; I, bald by many moons of aging, you, the same by affliction. It is now comforting that I said to you then, "We love you unconditionally."
Edward Silvent
March 10, 2014
Our thoughts remain with you and your family at this difficult time. We are honored by the trust and confidence you placed in us during this difficult time.
The Staff of Colonial Funeral Home of Leesburg
March 10, 2014
Such a shock and so sorry to hear of MJ's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as we reflect on the joy and memories we all have of her. Such a loss of a beautiful young life.
Ed Huntsman
March 10, 2014
Diane VanFleet-Bray-Brett
March 9, 2014
To Ed and sons, David and Ella, and Dirk I send sincere thoughts and prayers of sympathy and comfort at the loss of your dear Marijke. Having watched her grow up during her years living in College Station and knowing her and her family to be truly good and caring people it is particularly sad that she was called from this life so soon. Through her mom I had kept up with her all these years and especially during her health crises and so admired her for her strength and beauty to carry on. Marijke lives on in her sons and the memories of those who loved and admired her. She lives on because of her faith in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior. My love to all her family and friends who were privileged to love her and who crossed her path here on earth and now deeply miss her. Peace, Carol Scamardo
March 9, 2014
Goodbye, my friend. You will be missed.
Linda Yancey
March 8, 2014
Though I did not know you in body Marijke, I know you in spirit through Ella & David's energy and enthusiastic regard for others. I derive a feeling of a perfect being in you radiant and vibrant all gleaned from the loving thoughts wrotten in the guest book. I sense you are part of a strong family grounded in spirituality. And so to honor you through your family, MJ I'd like to leave them with these words on your behalf from one of my other heroes. " A happy family is but an earlier heaven". Bernard Shaw, Playwriter
Felix Nater
March 8, 2014
Our thoughts are with you at this time of sadness and grief
Leanne and David Atwater
March 8, 2014
My faith lights candles every Sunday for joys and concerns. Last Sunday, I lite a candle for Marijke and David and Ella Van Fleet.
We believe that our separate fires kindle a single flame. A little bit of our flame went out when Marijke left us.
Tim Peterson
March 8, 2014
No matter the number of days, a life lived fully and filled with people who loved her deeply...
David Flint
March 8, 2014
I can't believe the ache in your hearts to loose Marijke at such a young age leaving those two little boys. My brother passed away the day before after an eleven month battle with esaphagus cancer . My heart goes out to all of you but we have to hope they are in a place without all the pain and suffering.
Nancy Bajer
March 7, 2014
Sweet Sister MJ, it was truly our privilege to be with you in the tough times as well as in the good. With camera in hand, you taught us to take one day at a time and truly savor the moment. You were and will always be loved beyond belief by my brother and your best friend Ed. He was your constant caretaker for this last very difficult year, as he tended to your every need with joy and then made sure the boys had "Daddy" time as well. I never heard a complaint from him nor from you. You both took the hardest parts of life and showed us how to live them so gracefully. You are finally at peace and with the angels. Thank you for showing us how to live one day at a time and live it to its fullest! xxoo Your Sis
Therese Silvent-Schense
March 4, 2014
You are missed. My love to you and your family.
Charlyn
March 3, 2014
Ed, no words can express our sorrow and pain for your loss. However, the knowledge that you will be reunited in the next life with your eternal companion make this Earth experience bearable. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
The Feldmillers
Jerry Feldmiller
February 27, 2014
So sorry.
Marshal
February 27, 2014
My sincerest condolences during this time. "Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted."
May GOD HIMSELF wrap HIS arms around you and your boys during this time of grieving.
Alma Diaz
February 27, 2014
You will be missed MJ. Prayers got out to your family. Go be with God now.
Wally Crow
February 26, 2014
I worked with Marijke at Game and Fish. This is certianly some very bad news. It hurts me very much to see such a young, beautiful woman pass so suddenly. Please, know that my prayers for the family will continue.
Sandy Cummings
February 26, 2014
Goodbye my friend, my 'birthday twin' as you always called us. I will miss you.
suzi
February 26, 2014
I did not know her but my daughter did from a mothers group in Arizona. My daughter spoke very highly of her and my thoughts and prayers go to her husband her too precious angel sons her family and friends we mourn her but we know that she lived a great life and now she's in the arms of the angels and with our Lord God bless you all.
Barbara Krencicki
February 26, 2014
Ella, David and Dirk:
We were saddened to learn of Marijke's passing. We know this is a difficult time for you and want you to know you are in our prayers. Seeing the notice brought back wonderful memories of your time in College Station when Dirk and Marijke were growing up along with Robert and Jeanine. Sounds like she and Dirk followed their parents' footsteps in terms of dedication and achievement. May God be with you.
Jerry & Carole Cooper
February 26, 2014
With deepest sympathy and prayers to the entire family on the loss of such a special woman.
Louise Walker
February 26, 2014
Praying for all of you!! So so sorry for your loss!!!
Barbara
February 26, 2014
Praying her sons will grow up knowing how wonderful their mother was and how much she loved them. Sending my thoughts and prayers to her sons and husband.
Katie
February 26, 2014
I am so heartbroken at Marijke's passing. My love and thoughts go out to her husband, sons, loved ones and friends.
Rebecca Skinner
February 25, 2014
My family prays for the repose of Marijke's soul and we also ask God to wrap Ed and the boys in His unconditional love during this difficult time. May Our Lady also give you comfort and peace.
Tara Judge
February 25, 2014
My prayers are with Marijke's family and friends. Her passion for life will always be remembered.
Cristina Wong
February 25, 2014
I am so sad to hear of this tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with your family, your husband and your sons. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Rhi Murray
February 25, 2014
So sorry to hear this. I am a member of the lovely FB group she created for infertility survivors. Wish I could have met her. She seemed like a wonderful person. My prayers are with her family and those beautiful boys she fought so hard to be have. God bless all of you.
Shandra Locken
February 25, 2014
What a beautiful wife, mother and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. May Christ give you the peace that passes all understanding.
Emily Courtney
February 25, 2014
Rebecca & Gerry Kaselow
February 25, 2014
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
God Bless.
Maria C. Powell, St. Johns the Apostle Catholic Church
February 25, 2014
I was so sorry to read about a beautiful wife, mom, and daughter losing her battle with cancer.
Carol Tatum
February 25, 2014
What a wonderful woman: mother, wife, and friend. Her strength, perseverance, and love for her family was amazing. She will meet the Lord and family who have gone before us, with the words “well done, thy good and faithful servant”. Though she will be deeply missed by us, the appause which occurred for her home coming must have been amazing! I will never forget what she and Ed have contributed to me in my life.
Chaplain Gary Myers
February 25, 2014
chelsea duncan
February 24, 2014
Mike and Kathleen VanFleet
February 24, 2014
Elva & Tracey Chambers
February 24, 2014
Wanda R. Newport
February 24, 2014
While I will never understand why it had to be so soon, God knew what he was doing when he picked you to be on his team.
Love and prayers to Ed and the boys.
Meredith Overstreet
February 24, 2014
Kenneth And Wanda Vann & Family
February 24, 2014
MJ, your light will forever burn,I hope you are at peace,no more pain, and I pray your husband and boys can find some from this terrible situation.My heart is heavy after hearing of your passing...
Joe Z
February 24, 2014
Ed, boys, and family; There are no words but to say that we honor and respect our responsibility as god parents to the boys.
Gary Garcia
February 24, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family members and others with such a sad loss of a beautiful person in all ways. Clearly, Marijke was a servant leader and loving person.
Don Hellriegel
February 24, 2014
Sonny & Barbara Terry
February 24, 2014
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Ara Ashjian
February 23, 2014
Marijke sent me a friend request soon after I joined Facebook, based on a mutual interest in and love of wolves and wildlife. Though I never had the privilege of meeting her in person, I always hoped for a chance to someday meet her in the Mexican wolf recovery area in Arizona to look for tracks, listen for howls, and perhaps have the good fortune to see some lobos in the wild.
Sadly, that will never happen. But it warms my heart to know that she was loved and gave life and love to the beautiful little boys she wanted so very much. My sincere condolences to you, Ed. My thoughts are with you, Edison and Caj during this very difficult time. I'll be thinking of Marijke and of you three every time I hear wolf howls out in the Blue.
Jean Ossorio
February 23, 2014
breaks my heart to be writing this I have never met mj but she has touched my life so much what an amazing lady true fighter and now a beautiful angel love to her lovely family from a fellow breast cancer fighter from England xxx
julie taylorevans
February 23, 2014
We were first so sorry to hear that Marijke was diagnosed with breast cancer, but prayed and hoped her prognosis and outcome would be positive as it has been with so many others. Now, we send you our deepest sympathies and prayers during this most difficult time. May the 40 years of Marijke memories console and keep you now and in the future.
Paula Karlberg & family
February 23, 2014
We are so sorry. There are no words to express the grief you all are experiencing. Marijke was a wonderful person who brought joy to many people.
Ricky and Glenda Griffin
February 23, 2014
To a great friend, you will live forever in my memories and through the impression you have left in my life.
Emerson Charley Jr
February 22, 2014
I saw Marijke's post on the Triple Neg Breast cancer site when she just got the news that the cancer had returned with vengeance! This made me so sad for her, her children, her husband and all who she has touched in her short life.
I want to give you all my deepest sympathy for your loss and pray for peace in this time of healing.
I am so sorry! :(
Brenda Stemwell
February 22, 2014
I met Majik in 1996 - we were both beginning our career in media - me in promotions & her a hungry, investigative, reporter. She had such a jest for life & every corner was full of fun & surprises & things "to know". We kept in touch over the years as we went thru various life turns. I was so happy for her when she met the love of her life, Ed & remember her joy when she became pregnant not once, but TWICE. Such a wonderful mommy & an amazing heart. We have definately lost a FIGHTER...Majik we will all miss your smile.
Jodi Hamilton
February 22, 2014
Jodi Hamilton
February 22, 2014
I never met you, however, I knew you were the most courageous mother in the world. I read your letter for a nanny and I had been praying for you with all the other pro-lifers online from St. Johns . The world will be a lesser place without you. God will be always with your beautiful family.
Lucy Dartley
February 22, 2014
Dear family,
I did not know Marijke personally, but I wanted to express my deepest sympathy. At times like this, I have personally found Jesus Christ's words at John 5:28,29 to be truly comforting where he promised that "the hour is coming when all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out...to a resurrection of life." I look forward to that time so much. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss and I will keep you in my prayers.
Ashley Roncaglione
February 22, 2014
Ed, our thoughts and prayers are with you. With deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Paul Sedlak
February 22, 2014
Marijke, you were a true gift to so many of us. Thank you for your love! You will be missed dearly! Your family will now have an incredible angel watching over them.
Augusta Cloyd
February 22, 2014
Nothing can compare to the wonderful times we all shared with Marijke. She brought a zest for life and a valiant courage that few on Earth can comprehend and even fewer can equal. We are all better people for having known her. It was an honor to be her friend.
Karl Woods
February 21, 2014
I met Marijke in an online group and she just touched my heart. I have prayed for her and her family ever since. I pray The Lord wraps his loving arms around y'all and grants you the peace only he can provide.
Sarah Pipes
February 21, 2014
Our prayers are with your family.
John, Shonda & Gavin Webb
February 21, 2014
We are so very saddened to hear of Marijke's passing. She fought so hard to remain in this life to serve those that she loved and support the causes that she was passionate about. We hope she is finally at peace, and glad she is no longer suffering. The world will never be the same without her livelihood, and she will be missed dearly by many. Ed, Edison, and Caj, you will be in our thoughts and prayers during this extremely challenging time.
Cadey & Shane Harrel
February 21, 2014
We have such fond memories of MJ as a young child and then our experiences in Indiana and the move to Texas. Words cannot express our grief of losing her so young. God bless Ed, the boys, parents, and brother.
Aunt Mary/Uncle Larry Clark
February 21, 2014
I met Marijke when we first became mommies at the support group for new mothers at the hospital. We we all so uncertain about so many things except for the love we held in our hearts for our precious new babies. Marijke always struck me someone who was very passionate about life and her role as mother. There was no doubt in my mind how dearly she loved little Edison, and he was so blessed to have such a loving mother. I know these two little boys were brought in to this world with so much love, and I KNOW they will do big things in their lives with the protection and guidance from their precious mommy up above. God bless your family. Heaven is surely rejoicing welcoming their newest angel, but she surely will be missed here on Earth.
Kaitlyn Bauer
February 21, 2014
We thank God for lending us Marijke for almost 41 years. There will always be an empty place in our heart for her. Our family will never forget that beautiful smile she wore and the happiness she brought us. God Bless Ed and the boys that she loved so very much, and comfort Dirk and her
parents as they continue their life without her.
Aunt Jane Price
February 21, 2014
"Death is not extinguishing the light; it is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come." Rabindranth Tagore.
Please know that your family is in our prayers and thoughts during this hard time. Love The Gleasons
Donna Gleason
February 21, 2014
In reviewing the slideshow prior to writing this entry, I am struck by Marijke's beauty both on the inside and outside. She was an incredibly loyal friend to me and others. She had so much love to give and so many loved her in return. I will miss her hearing of her adventures and misadventures. I will miss her warmth and smile. I will miss her friendship. My love and condolences to Ed, Edison, Caj, Marijke's Mom & Dad, and Dirk.
Nicole Pena
February 21, 2014
So very sorry for your loss. Marijke was such a fighter.
kristen lindsay
February 21, 2014
I met MJ (Fight Girl) in Phoenix during a Mustang game. I soon after left Arizona, but we kept in touch. I will always have to cheer for her team, the Penguins. That says alot from a Flyers fan. My deepest condolences to her whole family. I can only image the wolves are calling to her in Heaven each night. Miss you.
Mark Witzel
February 21, 2014
I knew MJ from an online group we both were in. This is such sad news, she was so brave and fought so hard for her boys and herself. She will not be forgotten. She was taken from us far too soon.
Elise Hoffman
February 21, 2014
We in Arizona knew MJ for many years.Her work with the School district brought several of us together for lunch and MJ would join us for our trips to Costco on many occasions.I knew her as vibrant and witty person who was just flat out good people.When I heard she was sick I always thought she would recover.It is devastating to think she`s gone.My heart and prayers go out to Ed and the boys.She was a special lady and we will never forget her.I will remember the good times, and hope for peace and comfort for her family
Joe Tech
February 21, 2014
I didn't know you for very long but you touched my heart and gave me strength when I needed it the most. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Joei Youngren
February 21, 2014
I have known Marijke for 16 years. I met her right after we moved to Arizona. She was watching a hockey game. I will miss her dearly and my condolences go out to Ed, the boys, and everyone affected by this tragic loss.
Charlyn Teagarden
February 21, 2014
MJ always blessed us with her smiles, laughter, humor, inquisitive mind and loving heart. We will miss her and always treasure our memories of her. She loved her family so much, and she was loved in return.
Aunt Ruth & Uncle John
February 21, 2014
Marijke, you were truly a special soul who left this world far too soon. I will forever cherish the laughs and times we shared. You were one of my best friends, and I will sorely miss you. Misty and I wish our deepest condolences to Ed, your sons and the rest of your family.
Guy DeMarco
February 21, 2014
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
Andrea Proper
February 21, 2014
Showing 1 - 100 of 109 results
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read moreWhat kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read moreWe'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read moreLegacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreThey're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read more