Lois June Gouwens lived a life that quietly left a lasting impact. She wasn’t famous in her own right, but her story is one of deep love, personal strength, and the kind of family bonds that shape generations. Born on February 14, 1928, in South Holland, Illinois, Lois carried with her the values of her Midwestern upbringing and Dutch heritage. Her life was defined not by fame, but by how she nurtured her family and inspired strength in those around her.
Growing Up in South Holland
Lois grew up in a small town where family ties and community spirit were part of everyday life. The values she learned during her childhood—kindness, faith, hard work—stayed with her throughout her life. From weekend church services to family dinners, Lois’s early years were surrounded by strong traditions and meaningful routines.
She developed a gentle and caring personality from a young age. People who knew her recall her curiosity and willingness to help others. These traits became part of her foundation as a woman, a mother, and eventually a grandmother.
Dutch Roots and Family Traditions
Her Dutch ancestry was a source of pride. The influence of her cultural background shaped her perspective on life. She believed in the importance of keeping family traditions alive and holding onto values passed down through generations. Her mother, Virginia, was a guiding figure in her life. From her, Lois learned how to love deeply, care unconditionally, and carry forward responsibility with grace.
Those lessons didn’t stop with Lois. She instilled the same sense of duty and compassion in her children, ensuring that her values would not be forgotten.
Marriage and a New Chapter
In 1949, at the age of 20, Lois married Rolland F. Bertrand. Their partnership became the center of a new family journey. With Rolland, she raised three children—Marcheline, Raleigh, and Debbie. She embraced motherhood fully, and the love she gave to her children was steady and unwavering.
Their family lived in various parts of Illinois, including Riverdale and Blue Island. In each town, Lois found ways to get involved in her community, forming friendships and building a support network that helped her raise her children with strong values.
A Move to California
Eventually, the family made a big move to California, settling in Beverly Hills. It was a major transition, trading in the quiet neighborhoods of the Midwest for the fast-paced world of Southern California. But Lois took this change in stride. She adapted to her new surroundings, creating a home that remained warm and inviting. No matter where she was, family came first.
Her strength was never louder than it needed to be. She led by example. Even in an unfamiliar environment, she made sure her home remained a safe and supportive place for her children to grow.
A Battle With Ovarian Cancer
Lois faced one of life’s greatest challenges when she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The illness was tough, but she met it with strength. Family stood by her side as she fought with courage and dignity. She showed that bravery isn’t always loud—it can also look like quiet endurance and deep faith.
Her battle with cancer revealed her true character. Even during difficult moments, she remained strong for her children and continued to offer them love and reassurance. Her grace in facing the illness became another part of the legacy she would leave behind.
Her Final Days and Enduring Legacy
Lois June Gouwens passed away on November 11, 1973, at just 45 years old. Her death was a great loss to her family, but her spirit didn’t fade. She had already planted seeds of love and resilience that would continue to grow through her children and grandchildren.
One of the most public figures carrying her legacy is actress and humanitarian Angelina Jolie—Lois’s granddaughter through Marcheline. While the world may know Angelina for her work on screen and in global causes, the values she lives by can be traced back to a grandmother she never got the chance to grow up with. The strength, independence, and compassion that Angelina embodies are a reflection of Lois’s influence.
A Life That Still Speaks
Lois never sought recognition, yet her life continues to touch people today. Her story is a reminder that the greatest legacies often come from those who live quietly, loving their families, and passing on wisdom through everyday actions. She didn’t need fame to make a difference—she simply needed to be present, supportive, and kind.
Her example shows that what matters most isn’t material success or public praise, but how we treat the people closest to us. The everyday love we give, the traditions we honor, and the strength we show in difficult times—these are the things that last.
Lois June Gouwens’s life was about connection. Her legacy lives in every embrace shared by the family she built, in every story told about her strength, and in every moment of resilience shown by her descendants.
Even though she left the world too soon, the mark she made continues to shape lives. Her story is a quiet, beautiful reminder of how powerful one person’s love can be.