Dennis Weening and his wife Stella announce sad news: Stella’s father, Paul, has passed away. They both reflect on his death on Instagram (see video).
For example, Dennis writes: “Dear Paul, you were more than a father-in-law to me. You were the sweetest grandfather to Coco and Charlie. You taught them everything about life, nature and always gave them a book as a gift. And you gave me your greatest gift… your daughter Stella. Fortunately, she and Taufan were able to look you in the eye for a while there in faraway Indonesia. Just a few weeks together on Java. What we would still do. With Tati and the family. As if nothing was wrong. Just like we always were.
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And his wife Stella says: “Dear dad. I miss you so much, why did you have to go? I wanted to do all kinds of things with you. We still had to go to Bali and walk on the beach there and end with a coffee somewhere. in a nice tent. Just like the last time 2 years ago. We had to go to Tanjung Sari for a nice meal and we had a great time there I wanted to learn more from you about plants and trees. We had only just started creating the forest in Nunspeet.
I want to thank you for all your wise lessons, your love, the wonderful times we had, my dear little brother Taufan, I’m so happy that you gave me another little brother and together we will get through this. And we will take care of Tati. Your greatest love. I love you dad, greetings to mom.”
Expedition Robinson
Dennis Weening responded earlier this month to the departure of Art Rooijakkers from RTL. Dennis told RTL Boulevard that he was open to a return to the TV program Expedition Robinson, which he presented from 2012 to 2018. He called the TV show his “baby”. “I still think it is a fantastic program and I have also left my fingerprints on Expeditie Robinson.”
Not Dennis, but Edson da Graça will be the new presenter of Expedition Robinson, it was announced two weeks ago.
7:12
Art Rooijakkers and Malou Petter come to SBS6
(header photo: Edwin Smulders)
A Lost Father, A Cherished Legacy
In a moment that resonates deeply for many, Dennis Weening and his wife Stella have announced the heartbreaking news of the passing of Stella’s father, Paul. This is where we normally think of making jokes, but let’s not kid around—grief is a pretty serious business, my friends. And theirs is a story that sheds light on the deep connections we hold with those we love and lose.
The Emotional Tributes
In an Instagram post that reads like a warm hug wrapped in words, Dennis penned a touching message reflecting on Paul’s life. He wrote:
“Dear Paul, you were more than a father-in-law to me. You were the sweetest grandfather to Coco and Charlie.”
And he continued, highlighting the joy and wisdom Paul imparted to his grandchildren. Clearly, the man had a way with life—and books! If only I had a grandfather who gave me a literary gift instead of the usual socks… but hey, someone has to start the sock economy, right?
Stella’s Heartfelt Farewell
Stella’s tribute was just as poignant as Dennis’s, expressing her profound sorrow and longing for the adventures they had yet to embark upon.
“I wanted to do all kinds of things with you. We still had to go to Bali and walk on the beach there…”
Ah, the lovely imagery of family vacations—something that can turn into a comedy of errors! Pool noodles, lost sandals, and the never-ending arguments over who gets the last slice of pizza—those experiences are what family is all about, aren’t they?
Life After Loss
But amidst the sorrow, Stella expresses gratitude for the lessons learned and the love shared, not only for her father but also for the foundation he laid for her family. I mean, if you can get through the heartbreak of losing a beloved father and still have a sense of humor, you’re winning at life, or at least landing yourself in a poignant sitcom.
Changing Tides in TV
On a lighter note, Dennis had previously discussed the potential of returning to Expedition Robinson, a show he calls his “baby.” But alas! As fate would have it, he lost the gig to Edson da Graça. Talk about a cliffhanger! It’s like tuning in for a season finale only to find out your favorite character is being written off. Sad times!
Going through loss is incredibly difficult, and moving forward while cherishing those memories is a testament to the love that never dies. So here’s to Dennis, Stella, and their family—may they find strength in each step and humor in every memory, just like the rest of us trying to navigate life’s sometimes-crazy ride.
Dennis Weening and his wife Stella share the heartbreaking news of the passing of Stella’s father, Paul. In a deeply emotional tribute on Instagram, they each reflect on their cherished memories and the impact he had on their lives. (see video).
Dennis poignantly expressed his feelings: “Dear Paul, you were so much more than a father-in-law; you became an integral part of my life. You showered love on Coco and Charlie, instilling in them the values of life and nature. You had a special way of presenting them with books, igniting their curiosity and passion for learning. The most precious gift you ever gave me was your daughter, Stella. I cherish the moments she and Taufan spent with you not long ago in distant Indonesia; those few weeks together on the beautiful island of Java were a cherished blessing. How I long for more moments like that, surrounded by family, where everything felt perfect and right, just as it always was.”
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Stella added her heartfelt thoughts: “Dear Dad, the ache of your absence is overwhelming. Why did you have to leave us? So many adventures were left to be had. I had dreams of walking hand-in-hand with you along the beaches of Bali, ending our day with coffee in a cozy café, just like we did two years ago. We had plans to enjoy a wonderful meal at Tanjung Sari, where we always created unforgettable memories. I wanted to delve deeper into your extensive knowledge about plants and trees. We had just begun the beautiful journey of cultivating our forest back in Nunspeet.”
“I want to express my gratitude for your wisdom, your boundless love, and the beautiful times we shared. My dear little brother Taufan, I feel incredibly fortunate to have you by my side, and together we’ll navigate through this challenging time. We promise to take care of Tati, your greatest love. I love you dearly, Dad. Please give my regards to Mom.”
Expedition Robinson
Earlier this month, Dennis Weening addressed Art Rooijakkers’ departure from RTL, expressing his openness to possibly returning to the beloved TV show, Expedition Robinson, which he hosted from 2012 to 2018. He referred to the program as his “baby” and remarked, “I consider it an incredible show, and I believe I have left a lasting imprint on Expeditie Robinson.”
However, the role of the new presenter for Expedition Robinson has been awarded to Edson da Graça, as announced two weeks ago.
7:12
Art Rooijakkers and Malou Petter come to SBS6
(header photo: Edwin Smulders)