Gladys STELMACK

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STELMACK: The family of Gladys Mildred Marie Stelmack are saddened by her passing on July 28, 2012 at Fairview Home. Gladys was the fifth child of sixteen born to Harry and Lillas Cooper on June 22, 1922 in Spry Harbour, Nova Scotia. She was a care giver at an early age, eager to help her mother with her younger siblings. As a young woman, Mom sought employment in Halifax where she met Walter, who was stationed there with the Royal Canadian Navy during W.W.II. They married on September 10, 1945, and later moved to Walter's home town of Brandon, where they raised a family of five: Patrick, Joy(ce), Ronald, Verna and Dianne. In 1963, the family moved to an acreage near Rapid City. Walter and Gladys loved growing a large garden as well as raising a few farm animals. Quilting, knitting, reading, cards and bingo were among her favourite past times. She'd never miss an opportunityto go fishing with Dad and later on with son Pat. Mom was completely devoted to her family and was a loyal friend. As the grandchildren arrived, she tooka keen interest in their activities and accomplishments. Mom loved to entertain and the family gatherings that she hosted were filled with food, fun and music. Over the years, Gladys made numerous trips, mostly to Nova Scotia to visit her kin and a major highlight was a trip to Saudi Arabia to visit her son Ron and his wife Tracy. Church was an integral part of Mom's life. She made lasting friendships with the members of the congregation. Life changed for Mom on April 12, 2010, when she suffered a severe stroke and had to spend her remaining years at Fairview Home under the care of Health Professionals. Mom was predeceased by Walter, Verna, Pat and son-in-law Ellwood Wiltsey. Mourning her passing are her son Ron (Tracy); daughters Joyce Wiltsey and Dianne (Ross) Stilborn and their families as well as Verna Friestad's children; daughter-in-law, Faye and five siblings in Nova Scotia. A time of visitation, followed by the Funeral Service was held at Central United Church, on Thursday, August 2, 2012. Terri Hamilton and Pastor Trevor Cherry of Grace Communion International officiated. Interment followed at Brandon Cemetery. Friends who wish may make a donation in memory of Gladys to the Fairview Home Recreation Department, 1351-13th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 4S6.Though your smile is gone foreverAnd your hand we cannot touch,We have so many memoriesOf the one we loved so much.Your memory is our keepsake.With which we'll never part.God has you in his keeping,We have you in our hearts. Mom and Grandma - you will be greatly missed.Your FamilyExpressions of sympathy may be made at www.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre, 204-727-0330

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 11, 2012