Trees, the flamboyant queen of the Amsterdam Zeedijk, passed away: “She was an icon”
A legend, the queen of the Amsterdam Zeedijk or an icon. Just three descriptions we hear on the Zeedijk when it comes to Trees. She lived her whole life on the Zeedijk and died yesterday at the age of 85. Anyone who occasionally encountered her will miss her, for she was a flamboyant and unique appearance. And once you talk to her, you couldn’t get rid of it.
Armin van Zutphen was her neighbor for 25 years and already misses Trees: “She always walked by in her flamboyant creations on sky-high heels, or she waved from her window.” Her clothing style was especially striking, because she was already in her 80s. She kept up every day ‘down to the last detail’, says Rob van Hulst. He knew her personally and was always impressed by her.
No one really knew how old Trees was exactly. But she had a timeless look, says Amin. Another acquaintance explained that she continued to adhere to the captured image of the time in a colorful way. White teeth, nice hats, thick make-up, curls over her shoulders: it all becomes mechanical when it comes to Trees.
Opposite Trees’ house is the record store of Raoul and Bas, who help their neighbor across the street with chores, groceries and always have a conversation with her solutions. “Just like us, they collected shielded trees and they had the best interests of the neighborhood and the city. I’m going to miss that.”
Sinatra fan
Raoul also tells that Trees’s big fan was Frank Sinatra. “She was such a fan that she blasted his music through the streets.” Especially on Sundays, explains Michael Bruynse, owner of the café opposite her house. “She was a special person.”
What local residents and acquaintances will miss the most are presents on holidays and the daily chat. Trees was always up to date with all the latest news. “Once they got a hold of her, she couldn’t be stopped.”