1935 - 2026
Born on July 5th, 1935, in Semarang, Indonesia, Julia was the beloved daughter of the late Henri and Maria Jansen. She was predeceased by all of her siblings and her son, Richard Onkenhout.
Julia was the devoted wife of the late Gijsbertus Onkenhout. Together, they enjoyed traveling with their children and creating memories that would be treasured by their family for generations.
Her life was shaped by courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace new beginnings. Born in Indonesia, Julia and her family immigrated to the Netherlands during a period of political and social unrest. In 1962, she and her husband made another life-changing journey, immigrating to the United States in search of new opportunities and a bright future for their growing family.
They settled in Bellingham, where they began building their new life together. In 1968, they purchased the home that would become the foundation of their family life. Julia remained there for the next 58 years, raising her children, welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and creating a lifetime of cherished memories.
Julia was a loving mother to her daughters, Hellen M. Saxton and her partner, Graeme Bennie, of Westerly, Rhode Island, and Cynthia C. Maron and her late wife, Dianna Dauphinee, of New Hampshire; and her sons, Robert Onkenhout and his wife, Keiko, of Japan, and Eric G. Onkenhout of Bellingham.
She took great pride in her children and the lives they built, remaining a steady source of encouragement, warmth, and care throughout their lives.
Julia was also a cherished grandmother to six grandchildren: Amanda Allen of Peterborough, New Hampshire; Technical Staff Sergeant C. Michael Saxton, U.S. Air Force; Jessica L. Budge of Oakham; Clayton M. Saxton of Pascoag, Rhode Island; and Nathan and Stephanie Onkenhout of Yokohama, Japan. Her seven great-grandchildren brought her immeasurable happiness and remained a constant source of pride and joy.
Before retiring in 1997, Julia worked as a quality inspector for Boston Scientific, where she was respected for her diligence, attention to detail, and strong work ethic.
Outside of work, Julia found happiness in traveling, family barbecues, and preparing Indonesian dishes. Her home and heart were always open to those she loved. Those who knew her will remember her gentle presence, welcoming nature, and the simple but meaningful ways she made others feel cared for.
Above all, Julia treasured her family. Her warmth, devotion, perseverance, and encouragement will remain an enduring part of the lives of those who loved her.
