In Memoriam Anke Leenders-Dovens

Our beloved colleague Anke Leenders-Dovens passed away last Friday, 7 February 2020, at the age of 39. Anke had worked as a skills teacher in the FHML Skillslab since September 2012.
Her death has left us disheartened and sorrowful, with a deep sense of loss.  

In May 2018, Anke was told that she had a brain tumour. From the very start, she was very open with everyone about her illness. It was typical of Anke that she continued running training sessions with her colleagues for some time after receiving her diagnosis. Following treatment at the hospital, she would often cycle over to the Skillslab to have a chat with colleagues or join them on their coffee break.

Anke knew immediately that she would not recover. We admire and respect her for the way she handled this devastating news.

We remember Anke as a strong, courageous woman, a devoted mother, a dedicated teacher and skills coach, and an energetic, hard-working, pro-active and socially engaged colleague who radiated warmth. She had a sparkling sense of humour and was thoughtful of others; she shared plant cuttings with all her colleagues, and her small acts of kindness made people feel special.

Our thoughts are with her family and we extend our sincerest condolences to them.

We are grateful to have known you, Anke, and we will miss you.

A book of condolence can be found in the coffee room on level 3 of the Skillslab (Universiteitssingel 5). You are welcome to write a personal message of support for Anke’s family.
Contact: Femke Jongen-Hermus, Head of the Skillslab.