Lois June Gouwens was born on February 14, 1928, in South Holland, Illinois. From the very beginning, her life reflected warmth, resilience, and a deep-rooted sense of family. Growing up in the Midwest, Lois experienced a childhood filled with community gatherings, church visits, and the quiet strength that comes from a close-knit family.
These early years shaped her into someone who valued simplicity, integrity, and compassion. Lois June Gouwens learned early on the importance of human connection and the strength that comes from caring for others. These core values never left her side.
Dutch Heritage Pride
Lois took pride in her Dutch ancestry, passed down through generations. Her mother, Virginia, played a key role in preserving the family’s cultural roots. These traditions weren’t just celebrated—they formed the framework for how Lois approached life.
From celebrating Dutch customs to embracing strong work ethics, this heritage shaped how she raised her children and how she lived day-to-day. Her values of honesty, discipline, and togetherness became the foundation for her family’s future.
Marriage and Motherhood
In 1949, Lois June Gouwens married Rolland F. Bertrand. At only 20, she stepped into a lifelong partnership that would be defined by shared dreams and devotion. Together, they raised three children—Marcheline, Raleigh, and Debbie.
Lois embraced motherhood with her whole heart. She wasn’t just a caregiver—she was a guide, protector, and motivator. She focused on her children’s emotional health, education, and sense of right and wrong.
Highlights of Lois’s parenting approach:
- Prioritized emotional connection over materialism
- Taught values of compassion, responsibility, and empathy
- Created a stable and loving home across multiple moves
Life Across States
Following their marriage, Lois and Rolland lived in various towns in Illinois, including Riverdale and Blue Island. These places weren’t just addresses—they were chapters filled with friends, community ties, and heartfelt memories.
Later, the family made a big move to Beverly Hills, California. Transitioning from Midwest modesty to West Coast energy came with challenges, but Lois adapted with grace. She stayed grounded, focusing on family while adjusting to the new pace of life.
Health Struggles and Strength
Later in life, Lois June Gouwens faced one of her biggest battles—ovarian cancer. Even in sickness, she remained strong and composed. Her bravery wasn’t loud, but it was powerful. She was surrounded by the love of her family, who stood by her side through every phase of the illness.
Lois passed away on November 11, 1973, at just 45 years old. Her passing was a great loss, but the love and strength she passed on continues to live through her family.
Legacy Through Generations
Lois’s influence didn’t end with her passing. Her legacy continues through her children and grandchildren, including actress and humanitarian Angelina Jolie. The compassion, resilience, and grace that Lois lived by now echo through every family milestone.
Her story is a reminder that not all heroes are in the spotlight. Some leave their mark quietly—through the warmth of a home, the values they instill, and the love they leave behind.
FAQs About Lois Gouwens
Who was Lois June Gouwens?
She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother born in Illinois, known for her strong family values and deep-rooted heritage.
Was she related to Angelina Jolie?
Yes, Lois was the maternal grandmother of Angelina Jolie.
Where did Lois live during her life?
She lived in towns across Illinois and later moved to Beverly Hills, California.
How did she pass away?
Lois died of ovarian cancer in 1973 at the age of 45.
What is her lasting legacy?
Her legacy lives on through the values she passed to her children and grandchildren—love, strength, resilience, and care.