Petronella Maria “Nelly” Tessel

Nelly Tessel passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in her 82nd year, at Victoria Hospital, London, Ontario.

Nelly was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1944, in Hoorn, Netherlands.

Predeceased by her parents Peter Braakman and Nel Braakman (née Bos) of the Netherlands. Also predeceased by her seven siblings. She will be greatly missed by her truly devoted husband of 58 years, Nico Tessel. She is survived by her daughter, Natasja Israels (Marty), and grandchildren Liam and Evan. Also by her son Patrick Tessel (Sue) and grandchildren Matias and Melia. She also leaves behind her son Quido Tessel (Tetyana).

Nelly immigrated from Holland to Canada on August 6, 1981, with her three young children and loving husband. She was a skilled homemaker and enjoyed cooking and gardening. People will also remember her love of fashion and clothing design. She often mended or altered her family’s clothes. Nelly was an artistic and creative person who sang operetta and enjoyed dancing. She taught her husband Nico to dance the tango.

Nelly volunteered often. She gave communion at Victoria Hospital, played bingo at the McCormick Home, tended the store at Longworth Nursing Home, and volunteered at Scatcherd Children’s Centre. She also sang in the church choir and enjoyed participating in the Catholic Women’s League.

Visitation will be held at Westview Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, Ontario, on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Second visitation will be held at St. George Parish, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario, on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. George Parish, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London, Ontario, on Friday, October 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., celebrated by Fr. Pirt, with reception to follow.

Donations can be made to Covenant House in her memory.