Mintje Vandermeulen

Mintje Vandermeulen, passed away on March 9, 2026 at the age of 69, in Winnsboro, Texas. Born on March 11, 1956, in the Netherlands, she moved to Texas in 1982 and built a life surrounded by community and connection.

She is survived by her children, Esther Womack and husband Landon of Saltillo, John Daniel Vandermeulen and wife Magy of Willcox, Arizona, and Mindy Roberts of Saltillo, and her grandchildren, Lucas and Emma Womack, Jozlyn and Janelle Vandermeulen, and Lexi and Ryland Roberts.

Mintje is also survived by her family in the Netherlands three sisters Hieke Dijkstra-Tjerkstra and husband Harrie, Alie van der Lei-Tjerkstra and husband Dick van der Lei, Tineke Krol- Tjerkstra and husband Siebolt Krol and one brother Willem Tjerkstra and wife Alien Tjerkstra Meutgeert, as well as many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Andries Tjerkstra and Henke Tjerkstra-Verbeek.

Mintje trained as a registered nurse (RN) in the Netherlands. After moving to Texas, she paused her nursing career to raise her children, later returning to school to earn her license as a vocational nurse (LVN). She devoted many years to caring for the elderly in nursing homes, approaching her work with compassion, patience, and pride. Nursing was more than a profession—it reflected her kindness, empathy, and quiet strength.

During her brief time in Connecticut, Mintje received the American Red Cross Hero of Greater Hartford Award for her rapid response in performing CPR for a citizen in need, a testament to her courage and commitment to helping others.

Even in her later years, Mintje faced challenges with resilience and dignity. She will be remembered for her dedication, quiet courage, and the lasting impact she made on the lives of those she cared for.

Family and friends will gather for a Celebration of Life to honor Mintje on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Aguilar Funeral Chapel.