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Hilda van Stockum Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Hilda van Stockum
Sponsored by Hilda's son John Tepper Marlin.
Susan Hendricks
October 5, 2020
Dear Hilda Von Stockum's children,
I've recently discovered your mother's books through Audible and LOVE them. I am so sorry to hear of her passing; though she seems to have led a happy long life.
I am 58yo and suffer from chronic pain and PTSD. Because of this I mostly listen to children's books; it makes me feel safe and allows the child's mind within me to still wander freely and happily. I love the Mitchell's series and leave them on a continuous loop throughout the night. I now imagine your mom as Mrs Mitchell and you kids as the Mitchell children. I hope all your lives have been as joyous and loved as this family. Perhaps your family the inspiration for this wonderful creation.
Please know your mom lives in my dreams and heart. Thank you for sharing her and for giving me peace, safety and love during my struggling nights and days.
Stay safe!
Much Love,
Sue Hendricks
[email protected]
Glenside, Pa, USA
August 1, 2011
I am glad to have found this site. I read The Winged Watchman in the 1960s, as a child, and learned far more about the history of World War II, and about Dutch culture, than I learned from formal lessons in school. When a professor here in the Bay Area published a book about the hidden Jewish children of the Netherlands during the occupation. I immediately remembered little Trixie who was raised as Joris' and Dirk Jan's sister. and I have never forgotten Joris' parents and Father Kobus, who insist that we must pray even for our enemies. thank you Hilda von Stockum for creating such a lasting legacy.
Josh Marley
November 26, 2010
I Love You
Lee Hansen
August 3, 2010
What an absolutely beautiful woman Hilda van Stockum was. Your descriptions, especially Olga's brought tears of gratitude, joy, and conviction to my eyes. I want to be like her. It is true--we are living letters of God, and she is truly a beautiful one.
Thanks be to God.
August 4, 2009
I first read The Borrowed House when I was eleven years old, and I could not get the story or the characters out of my mind. A few years after I wanted to read it again, and was horrified to find out that it was out of print and no one knew where to find it. I spoke to everyone I knew about this wonderful book until one day a lady from my church came to my house with it in her hand. She had found it in a library in a neighboring town and checked it out for me. I was so happy to be able to read it again. I kept it for as long as the library would allow. I became desperate to have a copy in my home so that I would be able to read it as often as I wanted.
It took almost ten years and the efforts of several people before my mom finally found a copy for sale. I cannot really describe how I feel about this. It may sound silly, but it's almost like I was parted from a very dear friend for years and now I will have it in my life forever.
I feel that this book has been a blessing in my life and I am grateful for this wonderful woman who shared her remarkable talents with the world.
Janet Koss
July 3, 2009
I first read King Oberon's Forest as a young girl. Fifty-some years later, I still love it and will be sharing it with my grandson as soon as he's old enough. I had no idea how many other wonderful books Ms. van Stockum had written! Suffice it to say I plan to read them all. The magic of her writing is truly timeless - What a wonderful gift she leaves behind.
Suzanne Nussbaum
June 26, 2009
Hilda van Stockum was my favorite author for years as a child; I read and reread her works. The Winged Watchman was a special favorite, although I loved the children of Bantry Bay and the Mitchell family as well. I've always thought Andries was an underappreciated novel! Her illustrations and her writing were both magical. In about 1966, when I was about 9 years old, I wrote her a fan letter; and, to my amazement, she sent me a Christmas card, of a snowman, drawn by her, of course. How wonderful that she lived so long, and for so many years with her husband; and that her children seem to be so happy and successful. I'm happy that her books are still to be found; my treasured copies were loved by my daughter as well, and of course I'm saving them.
John Lourie
February 8, 2009
To you all, my very belated condolences. I'm prompted to write having just opened the copy of "Penengro" inscribed to my mother Olga by Hilda (with a charming little cartoon of a skater). When I opened the book out fell a flier for the exhibition of "Paintings by the Family Marlin" at the van der Straeten Galleries (NYC) I guess around 1973? I still have a number of (much-treasured) sketches and one or two small paintings of Hilda's given to my mother (a sculptor), and saw by a quite extraordinary coincidence that her work is in the collection of a couple my wife Lucinda knew well in Rome in the early 60's. I have happy recollections of time spent with Hilda and Spike, and Lis and John in Geneva when they stayed with my mother, and Lis and I are both medical deans in the UK by chance (although she is far more important than me). My best greetings to all the Marlins and again, my sympathy to you all.
Simone McGuire
November 21, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
carolanne cunningham
October 5, 2008
Hilda van Stockum has been one of my favourite artists for a very long time, in fact since I was a student at Trinity College, Dublin.
Erik van Lennep
August 10, 2008
Hi Johnny, and the rest. My very belated condolences as well, I had been wondering why I heard nothing from anyone regarding your mother for some years now. My last letters to her were in 2002 or '03 I think, but alas, at that time there were no replies.
"Tante Hilda" as we new her growing up in Washington DC, was simply the most important relative in my life. It was her (and your own, by association) warm welcome which actually provided my best holiday memories. Your family provided me with the sort of family circle my own sadly lacked. I don't think I ever told anyone other than your parents just how important that was for me.
It was Tante Hilda who encouraged me in my humanitarian and social development, who inspired my creative endeavours, and who catalysed my own move to Ireland, where as you know, her work is still nationally known and respected.
I have so many memories of Hilda, her sense of humour, her easy laugh at the silliness of life, the way she would cook for days and invite everyone for Christmas or Easter dinners, and sit at the head of the table with her glass of water ----fasting.
I remember you teasing her one Christmas about the bulbs she had "forced" into bloom, saying, "Mother, I think you should take your bulbs for a walk...".
The last time I saw her was in 1998 I think. I had come over from Vermont to see her in Berkhamsted, and was determined to take her to tea, after so many years of her having us over when I was a child. She agreed, but when I arrived, she would have none of it. She had prepared a full curry dinner instead. Her paintings were as strong as ever, her vision as clear, and her hand as firm. She said at the time, "You know, I think I am the sort of person who will simply fall over at her easle one day...." That was my last visit with one of the most remarkable people to bless my life.
Well, please let me know when the Leeuwarden retrospective is on, I hope to be able to make it over from Dublin.
Warm Wishes,
Erik van Lennep (-Hyland)
Maria Key
March 2, 2008
My belated condolences to the family of Hilda van Stockum. Like many others, I feel a special kinship to her through her books. Her books are absolutely the best I have ever read in terms of depicting family life, both its hardships and joys with a naturalness that is beautiful but not sentimental. I thank God for her gift and her willingness to share it with others.
Chris Mier
February 27, 2008
I first had to read The Winged Watchman for a 5th grade book report. I loved it! I have since then read 3 of her other books, and they are all as wonderful as The Winged Watchman.
Claire Johnson
January 8, 2008
Hello,I live in London,England. I read "Francie on the run" when I was a child of about 9 years old, I am now 58. My mother bought me the book when I was in hospital to cheer me up which it certainly did. I don't know what happened to my book but I have never forgotten the pleasure it gave me. Ms van Stockum was certainly one of the best writers of all time and I am grateful to her for the happy times I had reading the book.
Sarah Russek
December 7, 2007
Hilda was an awsome writer. She has a way of capturing poem and song in every day words. Everyone I told to read her books is hooked!!! :-)
Mary White
December 5, 2007
The book Kersti and St. Nicholas has been a tradition to read, in my family, for many years. The book was my mother's. I can still remember my grandmother reading it to us after my mother was grown. I continued this with my children, with memories of my grown son coming to sit at the end of the bed to listen, once again, to this story as I read to my younger ones. This story is now being read to my grandchildren. I had always wished that I could have told the author, Ms. Hilda van Stockum, how much joy this book has brought to my family, but since it was my mother's book, received as a little girl, I assumed the author was no longer living. My mother was born in 1933, and has since passed away. My daughter just found this site. (a year too late). But I want to convey to you the wonderful memories your mother's book has brought to my family.
David & Bonnie Horowitz
November 3, 2007
Hello, honored to be colleagues of grandson Chris Oakley.
Francis O'Neil
September 30, 2007
Hello, my name is Francis Joseph O'Neil and I knew your mother from Georgetown, Washingtion DC. I ran away and went to the zoo at age three. That was about six miles from my home on M Street. A police man at the zoo asked me where my parents were and when I couldnt tell him he took me to the police station. I remember them setting me up on the desk way up high in the police mans chair and it had two lights, one on each side. The lights had a long slinder post with a globe of white glass mounted on top and i remember then bringing me ice cream. They eventually found my father and took me home. The story of my runway made its way into the washington papers and soon after your mother contacted my parents. Thats is how I came to know your mother. We lived at 3029 M Street and I believed your mother lived up the hill from me about R street. I remember my brother and I went to your mothers house to sit for her illistrations. Years later, I heard from my parents that I might of been inspiration for Francie. I am very sorry to hear of your mothers death and wish i could of found her before she past away. Please let me know any information you have about the origins of francie.
Very Truely Yours
Susan Leffingwell
September 9, 2007
Love from Susan Leffingwel and family. (re: Broek from Utrecht/Van Zwicht-Van Stockum). My grandmother Ruth Heineck Broek knew your mother, and Olga. I remember some of Hilda's beautiful books from my childhood. Much love to your family! A very special lady.
Judy Vickery
May 30, 2007
Being one of the friends who met in Hilda's writing group was a joy and a privilege. Among many interesting characters, over the years, Hilda was the gentle centre. Her strong simple goodness affected us all.
Angela Bradbury
May 25, 2007
Dear John and Family, I recently read about Hilda in a Bethlehem Books catalog and felt an instant connection to her and her work. My husband Ron and I have five children and love every minute of it. Yes, even the difficult times. I especially love the encouragement and support your mother gave for large families and family life in general through her writing and art. God Bless You, our sympathies are with you. We are investing in a collection of Hilda's books!
Elisa Halvegård
February 23, 2007
I guess this is where Brigid wanted me to write, to share this with you all. We all have a precious picture of Hilda inside our hearts. I meet her in 1975 in England and she made a deep impression on me. I was a bit shy and unsure and spoke a terrible English, and she gave me a lot of love and confidence and read my hand. I still remember what she said. Some of it had a sort of influence on my life and reassured me of things. She later gave me a copy of The Mitchells in Norwegian so I could read about Brigid`s childhood. The last time I visited her I could help show the other quite international guests where her books were and boast a bit about her since she was in a modest mood. We included each other in our prayers, I as a Buddhist and she as a Christian. It was a good feeling to know. We will anyhow meet in the same heaven one day to have tea.
Now when I heard she had died she somehow visited me. She was about in her thirties and was ice-skating on a Dutch canal, wawing and smiling, as to say I am allright, all pain has gone and I can do what I want to do! I knew she wanted me to pass this on, so I told Brigid and she told me to share it here. I hope no-one will take offence, beliefs are all different. When this happened I did not know about her book about ice-skating, but I had of course seen the painting over her mantle-piece. Now in England I read the Borrowed House and The Winged Watchman at my friends house. They don´t age, all young should read them to understand our times bettet as well as history.
Claire and Paige Hungar
January 31, 2007
We are twins girls age 9. We recently discovered your mother's wonderful books, and then were sad to learn that she had just died. Our mother has bought several of the books for us. Paige is doing a report on Hilda Von Stockum. We are thankful for the captivating stories and pictures she gave to children. We know you must be sad and miss her.
Marcia Murphey
January 28, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear read about the passing of your dear mother. As the homeschooling mother of 6, the youngest two being six year old twin boys, I can relate to the stories of your family. I have read them aloud to my children more than once, and have shared them with friends. When all my children are grown, I'm sure they will remember the stories of the Mitchell's and how we enjoyed them together as a family.
When I read of her life, I felt humbled, and I hope that I can have just a fraction of the impact on my children's life that she has had on her's. Her strong character, faith, and wisdom, and her love for everyone, especially her family, shines through. Thank you for providing this web site, and again, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Shariffa Keshavjee
January 11, 2007
My Dear Olga,Brigid,Sheila,Liz,Randall and John,
I have just heard about the passing on of Mum.
May God rest her soul in eternal peace and give us the wisdom to celebrate her life.
For indeed her life has been lived in such a full manner that it is exemplary and needs to be celebrated.
What comes to my mind are the words of her poem where she acknowledges death and how she feels about beeing at he end of a journey which has been full and well lived.
Indeed a full life with six children which such varied talents and personalities that are so strong, spread over four countries.
I first met Mum at Glenview. She sat in her peaceful serene way in front of her vase full of alstumerias. The colours that she had on the paper were were so vibrant and the flowers had such life. What a talent she had how comfortable and humble she was with it. I enjoyed talking to her and being with her.
She came home for lunch with Brigid and Olga. It was a delightful lunch in the veranda, with many vignettes of her life in Ireland and Canada and words of wisdom.
I was delighted to hear that Spike Marlin had worked with His Highness Sadruddin Aga Khan in the United Nations High Commission for Refugees.
I visited Mum at her lovely home in Berkhamsted. We had lunch with her and Sheila,John and Brigid. She was so gracious and full of spirit. The picture of this fine old lady in her arm chair, so accepting of life as it ufolded is clearly etched in my mind. She gave me a copy of the 'Mitchells:Five for Victory' . As I stood humbled by her gift, she took a pen and sketched a picture of a young boy with a twig hehind him with the casual ease of signing her name. I was touched and have the book by my bedside to date.
I learn from her that life is a joy and has to be lived as such without fear and anxiety- with love and grace and thankfulness of all the bounties that God has blessed us with.
She was a lady who had so much to give that she encompassed all the people who came her way in into the embrace of warmth, love and generosity.
This I think she has passed on to all her children. Meeting John who was busy with his movie camera and interest in human life, Brigid who puts on canvass her passion for life and shared with me the magic of colour and form, with whom I can laugh and share my life, Sheila who showed so much love and care as she came daily to be with Mum and Olga of course, my mentor,my neighbour and Principle who has always inspired me and we have shared many beautiful moments.
Khalil Gibran said
'You would know the secret of death.
But how shall you find it unless you seek it in yhe heart of life?
..
For life and deah are one,even as the river and the sea are one.''
This I think is true of Mum.
With lots of love to all of you as we all join in prayer for a great woman who lived a great life.
Stephanie Kelly
January 5, 2007
John, please accept my sincerest sympathies. I was so very sorry to hear of your mother's passing. What a remarkable life she lived, and an incredible legacy she leaves.
Sincerely, Stephanie
Janice Silberstein
December 8, 2006
December 7, 2006
John, I was so sorry to hear from Irina that your mother had died. You were so kind to give me two of her wonderful books for the reading pleasure of my great-nephews. Thank you so much for this special treat. May your mother rest in peace.
Anne Allen
December 6, 2006
One of my favorite childhood books was "Kersti and Saint Nicholas". So much pleasure was given to so many by Hilda van Stockum. A rich life, well-lived.
Ann and Steve Weinstein
November 29, 2006
John, it must have been wonderful to have a mother like yours! Our heartfelt condolences to you and your family.
Rita Koch
November 29, 2006
I grew up reading Hilda van Stokum's books. I can close my eyes and picture her illustrations of Liam, Francie and Pegeen. I did a search today to see if I could locate some of her books online and found out she had recently passed. I just want her family and friends to know what a gift she gave to me and the world. God rest her soul.
Simon Ruddell
November 28, 2006
Thinking of Grandma Marlin, as I always knew her, brings back many happy childhood memories. Memories of playing on the west coast of Ireland, making sandcastles in the rain and roasting marshmallows on the jetty. Such fun, under the wings of Grandma and Grandpa Marlin. To this little boy she was a figure of generosity and kindness, with the most warm and comforting smile. I am lucky to have had those times and shall remember her with great fondness.
HELEN BYRNE
November 27, 2006
We were very sorry indeed to learn of the recent death of your mother and this is a short note to offer our sympathy to you and your family
Valerie Porter
November 27, 2006
Our children and I have read Hilda's books several times over. They wrote to Hilda and told her how much they love her books and we are so grateful for her wonderful letter to us in reply. She is a truly gifted and faithful Catholic and I feel I can now call on her for help from heaven!
E Ryan
November 24, 2006
Her books rank at the top of our very favorites for family read-alouds. She made us laugh and cry. May God bless her soul. We will remember her in our prayers.
Jonathan Willoughby
November 22, 2006
King Oberon's Forest came to me as a child one Christmas from an aunt in Vancouver, and the magic of the words and imagery have stayed with me all my life, indeed so much so that in recent years I became the husband of Hilda's grandaughter Catrine( in England). Hilda and her family have brought much magic into my life, I shall always be thankful.
Maria Ambuul
November 22, 2006
I like Ms. van Stockum's books alot and have read several of them. I am very sorry that she died. The books that she wrote are some of my very favorites. I started reading them when I was seven. Now I am twelve and I still love them!
Cara Ayers
November 21, 2006
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. We have laughed and cried together while reading her wonderful books. We are so thankful to have found this special author and we count her stories amongst our most loved and treasured. Mrs. van Stockum and your whole family are in our prayers.
Mary Vilim
November 20, 2006
I will always love her books and will always read them! We own many of them and now I am in the process of acquiring them for my goddaughter. May she rest in peace.
Barb
November 20, 2006
I have just been introducing the oldest of my five children to your mother's children's stories. How I wish someone had introduced them to me when I was young! She was a gifted woman and we will pray for her whenever we read one of her works. May God bless you and your family.
Catherine Cammarata
November 19, 2006
How sorry we are to hear this, and our deepest sympathies go with Ms. Stockum's family! We are a family of five boys on Long Island, NY, and Ms. Stockum's books have been a treasure during bedtime storytime. Our three youngest have just finished hearing the Mitchell's stories all over again this summer, and are keeping you all in prayer. Your mother's books have been a beautiful part of our boys' childhood, and they will always remember these stories! (Perhaps one of you can continue on with The Mitchell's Further Adventures???)
God bless,
C. Cammarata
rex tyler
November 17, 2006
I counted on her as my friend
An artist to admire
She had that eye for detail
And always, that heart of fire
She captured light her overlay of colour was the key
A smudge upon a canvas
came to life immedietely
Her kettles shone
Her glasses rang
Her fruit, a child like me
Would want to take a bite
out of, and replace it instantly
I used to take her fruit and food
On wild days and on shine
She would always pass the time of day
and in quiet hours, I will pine
In sure belief that Hilda
Will be with the Angels for
On Earth she was an angel
Always ready to give more
She was always nice with good advice
which she gave so generously
She would take me to her studio
I would marvel constantly
She would choose a battered copper pot
And a tumbler or two
And with shade and light and colour
Her genius shone through
Still Life, epitomizes
Hilda's brilliance, She
Created living breathing forms
right in front of me
November 17, 2006
Just wanted to send a condolence to the family. My children have loved Hilda van Stockum so much. What a truly wonderful gift her books are for all children.
God bless !! Family of fans of Hilda van Stockum
Jan Willem Blankert
November 17, 2006
Dear all,
We were very sorry to get the sad news of the passing away of your mother.
This is to let you know that my brother Barend and I will be travelling to London tomorrow evening to attend the funeral of our "Tante Hilda" on Saturday morning at 11:00.
Your mother was one of our mother's dearest friends, if not THE dearest. She would have liked us to be there. We feel we should be there and, in fact, we WANT to be there!
We would be prepared to say a few words if you wish. But I am not at all aware of the arrangements so would leave that to your judgement. We are entirely in your hands!
You can (almost) always call me on my mobile phone, the number of which is + 32 477 69 33 26.
Looking forward to see you on Saturday.
Jan Willem (Bertha's 4th son, the youngest)
Samantha Larsen
November 16, 2006
Hi my name is Samantha Larsen I am 12 years old and I loved the Mitchells series and I am realy sorry that she died and I just wanted to let you know that even if I dont know her I will always remember Hilda Van Stockum and her family God bless. I am sorry that I do not have a poem but if you would like some of the songs or poems I have wrote please contact me. GOD BLESS YOU.
Rosa Charles
November 16, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories of your mom bring you comfort.
Carla Kozak
November 16, 2006
My sincere condolences to Ms. Van Stockum's family. I began reading and loving her books when I was 10 years old, and have since collected my favorites, and jealously held onto THE WINGED WATCHMAN (wonderful historical fiction) and THE BORROWED HOUSE in the children's collection of San Francisco Public Library's Chinatown Branch, where I work. I so regret that I did not write to Ms. Van Stockum to tell her how much her books meant to me. I hope my 40 years of fondness and admiration of her work bring some comfort to her children and grandchildren.
Connie Ondatto
November 16, 2006
Sincere condolences to the family.
Hilda's daughter, Olga Marlin, whom I met in Kenya is a dear friend of mine and has been instrumental in my life. My prayers are with you all.
Stephen Wright OSB
November 16, 2006
My prayers are with you all in this sad time, as surely hers are with us. What spiritual richness and energy she has and this will live on in us. Her welcome, hospitality, laugh and common sense lit up my life on numerous occasions. We celebrated Mass together in her home in recent years and the Lord enriched me through her.
Aggie Chiry
November 16, 2006
I share the sorrow that you have now and am inviting you to believe that your mum is Happy where she is now.God knew that it was the right time to call her as she had accomplished the assignment that she had here on earth.
I have only read one book of van Stockum called "THE BORROWED HOUSE" and I liked it a lot.I learnt a lot of things from it and it really touched me.After visiting this website and reading all the details about your mum,I feel like I know her personaly as much as I had never been in contact with her.I am looking forward to reading her other books as soon as I can lay my hands on one of them.May God rest her soul in peace and may she keep inspiring us form where she is.
Robert (Bob) Sontrop
November 16, 2006
About eight years ago, while reading THE WINGED WATCHMAN, I rediscovered,through a child's eyes and heart,the country of my birth ..even the year I was born (1944). Now, in the book HE AND i, along with Maria Augusta Baroness von Trapp,of whom Hilda reminds me, I and countless others have discovered our interior homeland, which the Voice of Christ describes as "a never-ending beginning again of the joy of hearing Me". Hilda, we may hope, has been welcomed there, and, along with G.K. Chesterton, is "jumping for joy in the Face of God."
Pamela Smith
November 15, 2006
Our condolences on the loss of your mother. However, she will always live on in the great stories she has shared with the world. We have read and re-read Francie's adventures and hope to read more of her books. She has reaffirmed and confirmed our faith. We thank God for the gift of her.
The Smiths in Texas
P. L.
November 15, 2006
I have read several of Mrs. van Stockum's books. They always made me laugh. She truly showed what family life is like in "The Mitchells", "Bantry Bay", and "The Winged Watchman." I will miss you. Thank you for writing such wonderful books.
Mary Lou & Tom Wirtz
November 15, 2006
Our family has thoroughly enjoyed Hilda's books, especially the "Mitchell Family" series, in which we all found a character with whom to identify! We are grateful for her legacy of superb literature, and want to extend our condolences to the family of such a wonderful lady.
Suzanne Eva OBrien
November 15, 2006
Hklda van Stockum was a unique person and a great lady. I met her in the 99o-s when she was drawing my grandchidren, Hugh and Slaney Murphy in her own studio inEngland.I also met her husbandErvin Marlin, who was cooking our last luncheon when Hilda had finishe the drawings.
Susan
November 14, 2006
What a tremendous loss to your family, but what a tremendous legacy she leaves behind! Mrs. van Stockum's books have enriched our lives and the lives of our children. We have purchased copies for each of our children's hope chests, and we hope to be reading and re-reading them for generations!
November 14, 2006
The gift of herself and her understanding of life which Hilda van Stockum gave her readers has meant a great deal to our family over the years. We love the Irish books, the Dutch books, the American-Canadian books - all of her books which we have been able to add to our family library.
Please accept our sincere condolances for your loss of her presence in this world.
Kristi Ellison Jalics
Bath Township, Ohio; USA
Patti Devlin
November 14, 2006
We are sorry to hear of Mrs. vanStockum's death.
My children and I loved her stories!
Thank you for wonderful words and adventures.
May God bless and keep you always!
The Devlins
Patti, Patrick, Aileen, Katie, and Meagan
Lafayette, CA
Deborah Solinas
November 14, 2006
I am so sorry about the loss of your mother. Her books were a delight to me and my children, and I have used them as part of our history studies as well as just for fun. She will certainly be missed by those who had the privilege (as I did not) of knowing her.
In Christ,
Joseph Graham
November 14, 2006
‘Tante’ Hilda touched my life. Her eyes and smile, the smell of turpentine, easels, fruit, a feeling a peace, all flood back from an address on Lansdowne. When I saw her again as an adult, 42 years later, she simply looked me in the eyes and we both laughed. It was not just a reunion. It was also a blessing, a benediction. Her love gave me a deep self-confidence, as I am sure it gave to all who knew her, of any age. The strongest message that I cherish, put into words for me by Liz, is that I can ‘make a difference.’
Faith Roberts
November 14, 2006
Thank you so much for giving me this wonderful opportunity to acknowledge how your dear mother touched our lives. I read the three Bantry Bay Cottage books to my 6 year old last year. It was the coziest time. He is just like Francie. We spent our winter evenings completely enchanted by Francie's world. I got very good at Irish accents! We have also enjoyed Andries and the Winged Watchman. I want to get started on the Mitchells too.
What a lovely legacy your mother has given the world!
God bless you.
Faith Roberts
Karen Edmisten
November 14, 2006
Our deepest sympathy to your family on the loss of your mother.
We're a homeschooling family who just discovered Mrs. van Stockum's work this year. We adore her books. They have inspired some beautiful conversations here about love, God, the nature of evil and redemption.
Thank you for this opportunity to send a note expressing our great appreciation and gratitude for your mother's life and work.
May God bless you and your family.
Ana Braga-Henebry
November 14, 2006
It has been delightful to purchase (from Bethlehem Books) and enjoy Hilda's books in our Catholic homeschool family life. Her stories help us raise kids well in a topsy-turvy world.
May God give her eternal rest.
Hilda and the six Marlin children in 1947 - Olga (Joan), Brigid (Patsy), Randal (Peter), Sheila (Angela), John (Timmy) and Liz (Catherine).
John Tepper Marlin
November 13, 2006
I am adding a photo of Hilda and the six Marlin children in about 1947. John
Fransois van Haaff
November 13, 2006
Sincere condolences.
Fransois and Martje van Haaff
(Fransois is the eldest son of Hilda's late friend Esther van Hoogstraten of the Arts Academy)
Michael Lait
November 13, 2006
Sincere condolences to the whole family.
Jackie Fitzgerald
November 10, 2006
I was the youngest member of a local prayer group that Hilda attended and she made me very welcome she was such a character. At christmas she would dress up as St. Nicholas and give every member a small present I was highly honoured one year to receive one of her childrens books for my children which i often read to them. Hilda was throughly devoted to her faith,a remarkable lady, for her to pass away on All Saints day is most appropriate.
God Bless you and all the family, You are forever in my thoughts.
Conor Lait
November 10, 2006
Many condolences to all the family and in particular Sheila and the O'Neill Family in Garston Manor.
From the Lait family in Ireland.
Ann Dunne
November 9, 2006
The Board and Staff of the Montessori College Dublin would like to express their deepest sympathies to the Family of Hilda van Stockum.
Barbara Greenstein
November 8, 2006
I remember fondly "A Day on Skates" which was significant for me as my parents both came from the Netherlands, were proud of their Dutch heritage, and made me and my siblings proud of it, too.
michael beausang
November 8, 2006
Dear friends, It is always a shock when someone of Hilda's stature and accomplishments dies, but selfishly I take comfort in knowing that her paintings are in this city and that one of her marvellous books for children is on my shelves. She mattered enormously to my family and my mother and father. When my mother died, and I felt guilty about enjoying a meal in the Shelbourne with Hilda and Randall, she saluted her, but remarked of Life : "Someone has to enjoy it for her!" It is so typical of her life-wisdom - a capacity to surprise and enchant, even in dark times. She will not be forgotten, not by my sisters, nor by myself. May she rest in peace.
Nancy Martin Manion
November 8, 2006
My memories of Mrs. Marlin go back to the turbulent but joyous times I shared with your family.l I was a little nobody-neighbor, and friend and classmate of Olga for way too short a time.
My prayers and sympathy to all.
Peter Flynn
November 7, 2006
My sincere condolences on your loss. I didn't have the opportunity to meet your mother but she was an extraordinary women. May your fond memories of her be a source of comfort now and in the years to come.
Frances Phelan
November 7, 2006
Dear Marlin family,
Making our way through the stack of newspapers that awaited our return from vacation we came upon the news of your beloved mother's death. What a life and what memories you have to celebrate. What a wonderful legacy she has left in her expansive body of work, but especially in all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Frances Charette-Phelan and Daniel Phelan
Elizabeth Cowan
November 7, 2006
As a reader of Hilda van Stockum's books for children and the owner of one of her still-lifes, I envy the lucky family and friends who knew her, and extend my sympathies on their loss. "The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God (and) their hope is full of immortality."
Christian Cardell Corbet
November 6, 2006
My sincere sympathies are sent out to the family of Mrs. Hilda Van Stockum Marlin. What a fine inspiration she was to so many people of all ages too so many nationalities. She will not be forgotten.
"What is earth's loss is heaven's gain." Alice C. Corbet
Christian Cardell Corbet, PPCPA, PAACA, CGAM, ISA, SAA, FRSA.
Marie Walsh
November 6, 2006
My deepest sympathy. How blessed each of you are to have been a part of Hilda Van Stockum's exciting life. I heard so many stories about Hilda through her son John. May her dreams and ideals be carried out through her beloved family and her memory be an eternal flame.
Marlene Rehkamp O'Brien
November 6, 2006
My family and I were saddened to learn about the passing of Hilda, a gifted, giving author and mother. What a grave loss to all of us!
Hilda's son, John, my colleague, fellow alum and friend, introduced me to his mother's charming stories when I was excpecting our first child. The way Hilda captured and drew me into the lives of foreign peoples was uniquely satisfying, and even exhilerating.
Since then, our three children have cherished her writing -- first as listeners at bedtime, then through reading on their own. Hilda carried them off to lands they otherwise would not have come to know, and to times they otherwise would not have understood.
Next week our eldest child becomes a teenager, and I must say that, in this ever-changing world, I will continue to appreciate Hilda's contribution to his and his brother and sister's early years.
On behalf of my family, I extend to the van Stockum Family our deepest sympathy.
Sincerely,
Marlene Rehkamp O'Brien
Maureen Cummings
November 6, 2006
I read The Winged Watchman last week and was touched by the courage and strength of the Dutch family. The book was beautifully written and illustrated. It seems so ironic that I just learned of Hilda Van Stockum but I am so glad that I did. May Hilda Van Stocum rest in peace, Amen,
Irina Livshits
November 6, 2006
My deepest sympathy to the family of Hilda van Stockum. I never personally met Mrs. van Stockum but, as a young working mother, I am amazed how much she accomplished while raising six children. I am looking forward to reading her books to my son when he is a little older.
Candace Cole
November 6, 2006
So sorry for your family's loss.
I've never seen Hilda's work before, but will now seek it out and look forward to reading her books to my first child--due to be born any day now.Please try to post some of her images on her site, if possible.
Candace Cole
Los Angeles, CA
Charlotte Williams
November 5, 2006
So far my oldest son is the only one who has been able to read your mother's books on his own. He has enjoyed so many of them. I will always treasure memories of him sitting curled upside down on our couch pouring through Andries (his favorite along with The Winged Watchman). I can't wait for my younger children to be able to enjoy your mother's stories as much as he has.
My deepest sympathies to you on your loss and the world's loss. I know that she will be missed by you most deeply and the rest of us who felt as though we knew her by her engaging characters and interesting plots. They are classics and will be loved for generations, I can guarantee this for my family! Thank you so much for sharing her with us.
eithne o'neill
November 5, 2006
Dear Friends,
Remembering each of you, from my Montparnasse nest, fond memories of childhoods shared flood in, all bathed in the glow of love and life that your mother radiated.
Johnny and Lizzie under the apple-tree blossoms in Dalkey-"Where the bee sucks", starry-eyed Brigid dancing with sailors off the boat, Sheila's first paintings of red-brick Dublin walls, -only they were multicoloured-, Olga's firmness, Randall's gentleness, all stemming from one extraordinary personality. I still have photos of Sheila and Astrid Kofoed hansen, of the New York zoo we visited with Johnny and family long ago.
I saw her portrait of Evie Hone in the National Gallery, Dublin.
Gilberte Niamh, Sheila's goddaughter, who works for a little publisher and draws and writes, sends her love.
As I do this sundrenched Sunday.
Alicia Van Hecke
November 5, 2006
I would like to offer my sincere condolences upon the death of your mother. I can't even begin to say what her books have meant to me, to my husband and to our own six children.
My little ones have been reciting her "St. Michael poem" (very dramatically, I might add) from memory for years. I regularly bring out "The Winged Watchman" and "A Day on Skates" to share favorite (usually funny, but also poignant) parts with friends. "Canadian Summer" and "Friendly Gables" have been lovingly read to pieces. The O'Sullivans and Andries are very dear to our hearts.
I firmly believe that her books will live on for generations. They have already proved themselves timeless and classic decades after they were originally published. They seem even more pertinent today than ever.
Thank you and God Bless you.
Jim Noonan
November 4, 2006
With my deepest sympathy and prayers.
Jim Noonan, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada.
The Wedding of Hilda van Stockum and Spike Marlin in Dublin, 1932
John Tepper Marlin
November 4, 2006
Hilda van Stockum died on All Saints Day, November 1, 2006. Thank you for visiting this global guest book, fitting for someone who was a citizen of the world. Her six children are notified every time someone submits a condolence. The
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