On Friday, April 25, 2025, a significant event unfolded in the municipality of Gennep as fifteen dedicated residents were honored with appointments as Members in the Order of Orange-Nassau. This prestigious royal decoration was presented by Mayor Hans Teunissen, who personally visited each recipient to congratulate them on their remarkable contributions to the community.
The recipients of the royal honors exemplify the spirit of volunteerism and dedication that enriches the Gennep community. Among them is Wim Wellens, a stalwart volunteer in Milsbeek since 1985. Wellens has held numerous roles, including youth leader and linesman at Omni-vereniging SV Milsbeek from 1985 to 2000. He later served as a board member for general affairs from 2007 to 2009 and as interim chairman from 2009 to 2013. His involvement in organizing Koningsnacht from 2011 to 2023 further highlights his commitment. Today, he continues to serve as a confidential advisor within the club and is a co-founder of the sponsor committee, where he has been active since 2014.
Another honoree, Wim Zwitserloot, has made significant contributions to both industry and local sports. From 1978 to 1987, he was a director at Cargill Global, where he played a pivotal role in establishing an innovative wheat starch factory in Bergen op Zoom. His leadership continued at Westfalia Separator GEA from 1987 to 2010. Since then, Zwitserloot has dedicated his efforts to football club De Treffers in Groesbeek, where he has been a co-founder and chairman of Businessclub Zuid, fostering a vibrant network of local businesses.
Hans Cobussen, also from Milsbeek, has been a community volunteer since 1975. He co-founded the indoor football department of VV Blauw Wit Nijmegen and has been active at SV Milsbeek since 1987, serving in various capacities, including event organizer and club administrator. His commitment extends to being the chairman and volunteer coordinator of Tourist Info Gennep, where he promotes tourism in the region.
In Ottersum, Ben Gröniger has devoted over fifty years to various social initiatives. Since 1970, he has been an integral part of Kindervakantiewerk Ottersum and has played a key role in organizing carnival activities with De Maskotters since 1998. His volunteer work at football club Achates since 2004, along with his contributions to the Stichting tot Behoud van Cultureel Erfgoed Ottersum, showcases his dedication to preserving local culture.
Doortje Stoffels-Roosenboom, another recipient, has been a committed caregiver since 1991, helping a 101-year-old villager maintain independence at home. Her support extends to De Picardie day care in Gennep and various roles at De Zonnebloem since 1993. She was a co-initiator of the Huiskamer De Prôst in Ottersum, a welcoming space for community members.
Reg Cartledge has a long-standing commitment to the community, having served as a councilor until 1995 and actively participating in the Molenstichting Gennep since 1998. His leadership has been instrumental in the restoration of local windmills, and he currently serves as the secretary of the Molenstichting.
Patrick Arnoldussen has made a significant impact on local football over the past twenty years, serving as a youth leader and event organizer at V.V. Heijen and fulfilling various volunteer roles at S.V. Vitesse ’08 since 2012. His dedication to youth sports and community engagement has earned him respect among peers and players alike.
Maarten Daniëls has been involved in community service since 1980, contributing to various organizations including Stichting Jong Nederland Gennep and Volleybalvereniging Flamingo’s ’56. His efforts in organizing youth activities and events have left a lasting legacy in the community.
Wim Basten, a 90-year-old volunteer, has been with SV Vitesse ’08 since 1957. His unwavering commitment to maintaining the club's facilities and grounds exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism that the Order of Orange-Nassau aims to recognize.
Jos Ballast has been a dedicated volunteer for IVN Maas en Niers since 1989, contributing to nature conservation efforts and community events. His work has significantly enhanced the region's environmental awareness and appreciation.
Ine Ballast-Milius has dedicated her life to youth and care, volunteering with various organizations since 1985. Her work at Hospice de Cocon and as a hostess at De Prôst highlights her compassionate nature and commitment to helping others.
Henk Janssen has played a vital role in both sports and community service since 1987. His involvement with SV Vitesse ’08 and Tennisvereniging Gennep has helped foster a sense of community and sportsmanship in Gennep.
Frans Welles has been a key figure in the Sint Martinus Gilde since 1975, contributing to community welfare and religious life. His extensive volunteer work has positively impacted many lives in Gennep.
Lastly, Ria van Schaijk-Schriever has been a dedicated volunteer with the Zonnebloem since 2009, providing companionship and support to many in the community. Her efforts to organize activities and outreach demonstrate her commitment to enhancing the lives of others.
As the community of Gennep celebrates these exceptional individuals, their stories serve as a reminder of the profound impact that dedicated volunteers can have on society. The royal decorations not only honor their past contributions but also inspire others to engage in community service, ensuring a vibrant and supportive environment for all residents.
