ESTHER MARILYN TRATCH (HODGES)

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ESTHER MARILYN TRATCH (nee HODGES) It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Esther Tratch on January 18 at 71 years of age. Mom is predeceased by her parents, Albert and Edith Hodges, and her sister, Luella Sigurdson. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Andrew Tratch, sons Garry (Tarryl), and Shawn, plus grandchildren: Jace, Anya, Sofia, Olivia, Donovan, Devan, Van, and Selena. Also left to remember mom are her brothers John (Elsie) and Ken (Lynn). Although mom shared countless fond memories of her time growing up in her hometown of Makinak, Manitoba, she was drawn to the bright lights and excitement of the big city. While wearing her favourite Elizabeth Taylor wig, mom met Andrew in Winnipeg, and they soon married in Makinak in 1966. From humble beginnings on Rue Beliveau in St. Vital, they moved to Sunny St. James, and many acquaintances were convinced that it was only sunny because of mom's smile and infectious laughter. At their new home, mom could always be found hosting basement and yard parties, and always had a bed and breakfast ready for friends and family passing through Winnipeg. In 1972, mom and dad welcomed Garry into the family and mom took a hiatus from work at Shaw Dental. In 1974, they all welcomed Shawn, after which mom decided to stay at home and raise her family. Being a great mother and having a special connection with young children, it was a natural transition for Esther to open up her home as a daycare for children of friends and neighbours. Over the next decade, children from all around St. James visited mom to sample her amazing cookies and to be made to feel like they were the most special people in the world, like only mom could do. Mom greatly valued the friendships that grew from work at Hamilton Dental, her sons' hockey teams, neighbourhood block parties, and from babysitting all the baby Bombers. She even kept close tabs on the teens who had jam-sessions in her basement. She was most proud of her sons and was completely supportive of all their endeavours. Together, they forged a love for camping all around the province, but especially at Ste. Ambroise Beach and throughout the Duck Mountains. Skane's Crossing remained a favourite party spot for many years. Stopping in to see or camp with mom's sister, Luella, and husband, Ken, was a priority. Once both sisters starting giggling, you knew trouble was coming! Mom and dad definitely had the travelling bug. They often travelled with sisters and brother-in law, Anne, Gladys, and Ray. Mom and dad ventured all over: from BC to the Blackhills to Mexico to Disneyworld, and on. Mom had a bucket list of places she wanted to see and was able to check many boxes, such as cruising around Hawaii with her two sons, and daughter-in-law (she dreamed of meeting Elvis in Hawaii). Mom visited Medora, ND, to re-sample the Blackhills-type Western life, and she also went to Las Vegas last year to celebrate a very special 21st birthday. When dad suffered his aneurism in 1994, mom took a leave of absence to care and rehabilitate him. For nearly two decades, mom was dad's constant and tireless caregiver, who kept her social life alive through phone calls and spontaneous drop-ins for coffee or a game of cards. Mom enjoyed visiting her son and granddaughters in Canora, Sk., especially when the girls were in full costume for Ukrainian dance competitions. She also enjoyed her road trips out to Lac du Bonnet to spend quality time with her oldest son and family playing cards and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Whenever possible, she eagerly went to watch family and friends in dancing and theatre performances across the provinces. Mom and dad stayed in the neighbourhood for 40+ years because of the amazing neighbours who we grew up thinking of as extended family. While in St. James, mom demonstrated a strong commitment to volunteering and was on various committees, like the neighbourhood watch. In recent years, mom re-connected with past hockey moms and enjoyed her ladies' nights (well, afternoons) with her girls. With her hair perfectly coiffed, her silver nails painted, she left a trail of leopard prints, purple sparkles, and costume jewelry wherever she went. Mom's zest for life was unforgettable and she will be missed beyond words. Thanks to all the staff at the Grace Hospital and the staff at Oakview Personal Care Home for making mom (and us) as comfortable and well taken care of as possible. To all family and friends: there are no words for your support and kindness. We love you all. In honour of mom's wishes, no formal service will be held. A come and go tea for family and friends will be held at "Aunty Esther's" / "baba's" home on May 12 from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit www.chapellawn.ca Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 204-885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 27, 2018