Nelly Dijkman-Kirk Obituary

DIJKMAN-KIRK, NELLY, 10/28/18 - 04/26/07, On this date, the most wonderful companion and wife rose to take occupancy of a room prepared for her in one of Almighty God's Heavenly Mansions as promised by our Lord and Savior. Nelly was born of Dutch heritage, on the Island of Java; and later settled in Jakarta of the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia. When she married Marinus J. Dijkman, she traveled with him throughout the islands where he managed a number of rubber plantations. In December 1941 or January 1942, the Japanese captured Singapore, Borneo, and most of the archipelago. All considered as "white race" were imprisoned. Nel's father and husband, her mother and sister were held for 3 1/2 years. Her son, and only child was born in a camp, in July 1942. When WWII ended, the family was not released until October 1945. The were sent to Australia for recovery. Dr. David Fairchild, a famous botanist from Miami, cabled the American Embassy/ Australia, and asked the embassy to find J.J. Ochse whom he had met while sailing the Spanish Spice route in the late 1930's. Fairchild was instrumental in settling Nelly's family in Miami. Nel's father and husband, with Doctorate degrees established the Department of Tropical Agriculture, at the U. of Miami. Nelly and her husband built the first orchid house in Fairchild's Tropical Garden. When Nelly's husband became fatally ill in 1969, she launched a memorable career as a real estate broker/sales- person. In 1995 she moved to Key Largo, and semi-retired (1997). Due to lingering health problems which began in 2003, she and her husband Charles Kirk moved to Ocala to enjoy the quiet of a different atmosphere. A brief return of pneumonia and heart problems hospitalized this dear woman. She was moved to a marvelous hospice, where her true character and strengths shone through. She is survived by her husband, Charles Kirk; her sister, Ans Arens, West Virginia; her son, Dick J. Dijkman and daughter-in-law, Brenda (Scottsdale, AZ) and three grandsons; Jennifer Kirk Stewart (Jacksonville), Christopher H. Kirk (Miami), Donald J. Kirk, his wife Marisol and two grandsons, (Calgary, Canada), Michael T. Smith (Vancouver, Canada) and Daniel C. Hull (Hamilton, Ontario). MEMORIAL SERVICE: A happy celebration of Nelly's life and friends will be held at OLD CUTLER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH/ Davis Chapel (144 Street and Old Cutler)...4PM, Friday, May 4 . Short eulogies welcome. Light refreshment to follow (Fellowship). Please: In lieu of flowers send a contribution to the non-profit "Hospice of Marion County" a marvel of comfort-care, and kindness: P.O. Box 4860, Ocala, Fl. 34478-48600/ or: Alzheimer's Association - 988 Woodcock Rd., Ste. 200, Orlando Fl 32803. To visit this Guest Book Online, go to www.MiamiHerald.com/obituaries.

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Published by the Miami Herald on Apr. 28, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Nelly Dijkman-Kirk

7 Entries

Fernando and Kirsten Guillot

May 12, 2007

Dear Charles.
Will never forget Nellie she was such a very special person to me and later to Fernando, and then we went and got married on the same day!!!
We are so sorry for your loss, and you are in our thought's and prayers.
Sending you all our love
Fernando and Kirsten

Gary and Linda Keller

May 1, 2007

Dear Charles -

Gary and I will always remember you and Nelly for your graciousness and friendship when we first moved into your neighborhood in Pinecrest. The many plants you shared with us are thriving in the garden, and a daily reminder of the two of you. We've enjoyed hearing of your adventures from your holiday greetings through the years. She was an amazing lady, and we were fortunate to have known her.

With love,

Joy and Doug Poulter

April 29, 2007

Dearest Charles:

What a privilege to know such an extraordinary woman. What an exciting adventure she had in this incarnation.

I'm sure the years you shared will continue to bring you great love in the memoires.

Nellie deserves a rest before she once gain chooses to grace all with her presence.

Sending you Love to Light your way.

Love Joy and Doug Poulter.

Jill Godfrey

April 29, 2007

Dearest Charles,
It was only this morning that I learned of Nelly's passing. How truly saddened Gil and I are to hear of your loss. We will always treasure her memory, I think of her often when I am out in the beautiful back yard that you and Nell created. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. She was one-of-a kind, and we will remember her always.

helene and jack stevens

April 29, 2007

Dear Charles and entire family.
What a priviledge to have shared many years of working and having fun with a truly larger than life lady. Nelly, ALWAYS THERE to assist and help anyone in any need about anything. The obituary was outstanding, as was she, and many many memories shall be held and treasured in all our heart and PRAYERS,
Helene and Jack Stevens
Juno Beach, Florida

Betty Wersen

April 28, 2007

Nelly was one of a kind. A lady always and as a Realtor she was a pleasure to work with.
My condolences to all her family.
Betty Wersen

Sue Tippett

April 28, 2007

Charles: It has been a while since we have seen each other but never have forgotten you or Nelly. You two were so helpful to me while I had my place in the Keys and so enjoyed our "little parties". I will never forget the time you all came to help me after Hurricane George. I admired Nelly very much for all she had gone thru in her younger days and the stamana she had in later years. Be strong and know you always have a friend in me. Sue Tippett

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