The Charles Darwin Foundation sends our deepest condolences to the family of Ans Thurkow-Hartmans, former Treasurer and Vice-President of the Dutch Friends of Galapagos. Ans was a great ally and friend of the Research Station and Galapagos, as well as an avid supporter of protecting its unique biodiversity.

Ans and her husband lived in Caracas, Venezuela in the early 1980s. Both were extremely interested in nature conservation and visited the Galapagos Islands to experience its unique biodiversity for themselves. They took this journey on board the Encantada ship. It was during this time that Ans fell in love with the islands.

When the Dutch Friends of Galapagos was founded in 1993, Ans joined as both a member and treasurer. For more than 20 years, she passionately raised funds for many research projects as well as engaged new generations of supporters of the Charles Darwin Foundation. Ans eventually served as Vice President of the organization before stepping down in 2020.

Ans will be missed dearly by her friends in the Galapagos and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.