en.malanginspirasi.com – Bartina Koeman, the wife of former Netherlands national team coach and Barcelona legend Ronald Koeman, has passed away at the age of 65 following a long battle with breast cancer.
The family announced her death on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, confirming she died on September 15.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Ronald Koeman wrote on behalf of the family: “With intense sadness, but also with great pride and love, we say goodbye to my beautiful wife, our dearest mom and grandma. Bartina Koeman – Boddeveld. 30 January 1961 – 15 September 2026.”
The couple, married since 1985, shared a 41-year marriage and raised three children: Tim, Debbie, and Ronald Jr.
The family has grown further with several grandchildren; their youngest son, goalkeeper Ronald Koeman Jr. of Telstar, and his partner welcomed their first child earlier this month, becoming the family’s newest addition.
Bartina was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010.
After treatment and a period of recovery, the disease returned in 2018. By 2023 it had become chronic, and she continued undergoing regular treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy, in the years that followed.
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She spoke openly in recent interviews about her resilience, describing her condition at times as “stable” and emphasizing her desire to live fully while focusing on her family.
Ronald Koeman stepped down as Netherlands coach this summer after the team’s early World Cup exit against Morocco.
In his resignation message he cited the importance of health and family, praising Bartina’s support throughout his tenure despite her own illness.
“My wife Bartina has supported and encouraged me every day to finish my work as a national coach despite her own illness process. That is a testimony to incredible strength,” he stated at that time.
He had previously noted that football remained secondary to her well-being.
Condolences from Clubs Worldwide
Football clubs and organizations associated with Koeman’s career quickly offered condolences. FC Barcelona, where Koeman enjoyed major success as both player and coach.
“FC Barcelona and its supporters send their deepest condolences and affection to Ronald Koeman and his family for the passing of his wife, Bartina Koeman. May she rest in peace.”
The Netherlands national team also expressed its support.
“With sadness, we have learned of the passing of Bartina Koeman, the wife of our former national team coach Ronald Koeman. We wish Ronald, their (grand)children, family, and other loved ones a great deal of strength and support in the face of this great loss.”
Fans and the wider football community have recalled the couple’s shared resilience through decades of moves across clubs including Ajax, PSV, Barcelona, Southampton, Everton and others, as well as joyful family moments captured over the years.
Bartina was widely admired for her strength, openness about her illness, and the quiet support she provided behind the scenes.
The Koeman family has requested privacy as they grieve.
