[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 10 (Wednesday, February 1, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E42]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                  TRIBUTE TO MARIJKE BYCK-HOENSELAARS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 1, 2006

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great sadness to honor my 
friend, Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars, who died in a tragic accident on 
January 5, 2006. Marijke's death leaves a void in the Sonoma County 
community that will be a reminder of her compassion, grace, and 
generosity for years to come.
  Born in Holland in 1933, Marijke met her husband Walter Byck in the 
cafeteria of the New York hospital where both worked, she as a nurse 
and he as a radiologist. Long-time lovers of the arts, the two decided 
to marry in 1961 while visiting the Kroller-Muller Museum in the 
Netherlands.
  The couple moved to Santa Rosa in 1965 and purchased the Paradise 
Ranch in 1978. After raising grapes for many years, they opened 
Paradise Ridge Winery in 1994. Their five children were raised mostly 
on the 156-acre property and several worked in important positions at 
the winery where Marijke was chief executive.
  Taking advantage of the beautiful site in the hills on the edge of 
Santa Rosa, Marijke and her family created a unique facility as well as 
producing outstanding wines. The grounds feature a sculpture garden 
which exhibits the work of local artists, and the large central 
building with its stunning views has been home to many unique events 
over the years.
  But Marijke's legacy will be especially marked by her tireless 
efforts, frequently performed anonymously, on behalf of the less 
fortunate in Sonoma County. From delivering in old sweat pants food 
packages and holiday gifts for children to low-income families to 
serving as a Board Member, benefactor, and leader with local nonprofit 
groups, her helping hand and personal involvement were the hallmark of 
her style.
  Marijke's compassion led to her participation in the Sonoma Task 
Force for the Homeless, the National Women's History Project, Catholic 
Charities, The Children's Village of Sonoma County, and other causes 
for which her winery served as the site for benefits and fundraisers. 
She also cared deeply about global peace issues, and her activism 
reflected these broader concerns as well.
  According to one friend, her service went beyond compassion. She was 
hungry as a child in Holland during the war years and felt a deep 
empathy that was integrated seamlessly into her life. Whenever she went 
out to dinner, she boxed her leftovers and did not go home till she 
found a hungry person to give them to.
  Commitment to her family played a key role in this seamless life. She 
is survived by her husband Walter, her five children, and many 
grandchildren whose presence gladdened her heart and enhanced her joy 
in life. Their loss will be deeply felt and shared by their many 
friends.
  Mr. Speaker, it is hard to imagine life in Sonoma County without 
Marijke Byck-Hoensellars' warm smile, her friendship, and her 
humanitarianism. I am confident that her spirit will live on in those 
of us she has inspired during her 40 years in the community.

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