Bettina van der Giessen

Bettina van der Giessen (1989-2026)

Bettina van der Giessen, a beloved daughter, sister, cousin, aunt, and devoted dog mom, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at the age of 36.

Bettina was born in California and spent much of her childhood exploring her family’s acreage in the mountains of West Virginia, where she shared many joyful days playing outdoors with her brother. The family created cherished memories at Lake Floyd and during visits with her grandparents in Florida. During her high school years, Bettina and her mother relocated to Sudbury to be closer to extended family, where she continued to build strong and lasting connections.

Bettina had a natural gift for caring for others, particularly children, and spent many years babysitting and supporting local families. Her gentleness and compassion extended just as deeply to animals. Through her volunteer work with organizations such as SAINTS Dog Rescue and Pet Save, Bettina opened her home and heart to dogs in need, offering them safety, patience, and the opportunity for a second chance.

She was predeceased by her father, David van der Giessen; her Opa, Laszlo Paxy; her uncle, Leslie Paxy; and her beloved fur babies, Loki and Mika. Bettina will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her mother, Gaby van der Giessen; her Omi, Lisolette Paxy; her brother, John (Jennifer) van der Giessen; her half-siblings Ingrid Rhode, David van der Giessen, and Pim van der Giessen; her aunt Andrea (John) Chute; her cousins Megan Chute and Andrea (Byron) Murray; her cherished nieces and nephews; as well as her close friend Dean and her beloved dog, Baloo.

In accordance with Bettina’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bettina’s memory to SAINTS Dog Rescue, Pet Save, or another animal rescue you support.

Cremation services are provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury, and Crystal Crematorium.

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