Agnes Hoogveld

Agnes Hoogveld, a longtime resident of Fresno, Calif., died peacefully in her sleep on Friday, Aug. 10. She was 104 years old.

Born in the Netherlands on Sept. 9, 1902, to Leendert Dijkhuizen and Jacoba den Dulk, Agnes was the last survivor of their nine children.

After her marriage to August Hoogveld in 1933, they moved to Indonesia, where August was employed with the British American Tobacco Company.

During the Japanese occupation of this region after the outbreak of World War II, the Hoogvelds were imprisoned in a concentration camp for three and a half years. Agnes and her two young daughters were separated from August with no contact for the duration of the internment. They returned to Holland in 1950.

Agnes endured many hardships in her life but remained strong, never looking back. Regardless of her circumstances, she always maintained an optimistic attitude.

In 1956, Agnes and her family immigrated to the United States to start a new life. They settled in Fresno, Calif., where her husband found employment with the Santa Fe Railroad.

Agnes had a zest for living. She was ahead of her time in matters of fitness and health, and embraced the movement long before it became mainstream. Prevention Magazine was her guide for health tips and Jack La Lanne her fitness guru. She did yoga, made her own skin creams and was an avid walker, even as a centenarian. To anyone who visited, she graciously prepared her best cup of tea, properly served in her finest china.

Her family and friends will always remember her warm smile and generous spirit.

She is survived by her daughter, Anjes Morris; son-in-law, Frank Morris; grandchildren Jacoby Arax, Victoria Valente, Jerrett Morris, Christine Walp, and Stacy Lee Stranieri; and seven great-grandchildren.

Agnes was preceded in death by August, her beloved husband of 51 years; her son, Gustaaf Hoogveld; and her daughter, Jacoby Lee.

Remembrances may be made to Hinds Hospice, 1616 W. Shaw, Ste. A-5, Fresno, CA 93711.