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URSULA OLDENBURG-DELFING (nee SCHWAHN) On June 19th, 2013, mom's long battle with cancer ended. Although we will miss her terribly, we are grateful she can finally rest. Her journey ended as she had lived, surrounded by family and friends who loved her very much. She is survived by her devoted husband, Gunter; her children Cindy (Gregg) Fox, Connie (Bryan) Coutts, and Craig (Sandy) Oldenburg; also her stepdaughters Christel (Tom) Maskiew and Rita (Sean) Delfing-Flynn. There was a special place in mom's heart for her grandchildren Katherine (Stephane), Colin, Ryan, Drake, Tyler, Alex, Caitlyn and Matthew, who will all miss their Omi. Ursula's life began in Bahn, Germany, where she lived with her family until her childhood was disrupted by the Second World War. Life could never be the same behind the Iron Curtain, so, at her parents' insistence, Ursula started a new life for herself in London, England, where she became a nurse. In 1953, she seized the opportunity to work at the King George Hospital in Winnipeg during the polio epidemic. The hospital was demolished in 1999 to make way for the Riverview Health Centre, where mom would return 60 years later to spend her final days. Soon after arriving in Winnipeg, Ursula married and eventually adopted three children, who became her top priority. She raised her family first in Transcona, then in East St. Paul, making many lifelong friends along the way. 1979 signalled a fresh start for Ursula. With the support of her friends, she made a new home for her children and went into business as a restauranteur. She followed her love of music and joined the German Choir, where she met the love of her life, Gunter Delfing. Gunter has been at mom's side ever since. Mom's first battle with breast cancer was in 1988. The birth of her first grandchild, Katherine, helped her through some dark times. Mom rebounded and began a ten year career with the German Canadian Congress. The German Choir continued to be a big part of their lives, becoming like second family. Mom had a right to be proud of her time as president, a role she thoroughly enjoyed. The dark cloud of cancer returned in 2009, but mom fought on, defying the odds and gracing us with four more years of special memories. At this time, the family would like to thank the amazing staff at Riverview for their loving, attentive care. They helped to make this difficult time a little bit easier. Friends - we appreciate all that you've done and all you continue to do. As per mom's wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place on Wednesday, June 26th, 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverview Health Centre. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-586-8044
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 22, 2013
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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Dear Gunter and Cindy; So sorry I cannot be there to celebrate Ursula's life with you today, I am travelling at the moment. I pray for you today, may the Lord bless and keep you forever!! With Love and Blessings! Jennifer - Posted by: Chaplain Jennifer (Friend) on: Jun 27, 2013
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Mom....I love you and miss you. - Posted by: Connie Coutts (daughter) on: Jun 25, 2013
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Onkel Gunther, I am sorry for your loss of Uschi. I know that you will miss her immensely and I am sorry that I cannot attend her memorial service tomorrow. My deepest condolences to you, Christel & Rita and to her children. - Posted by: Benita Delfing (Niece of Gunther Delfing) on: Jun 25, 2013
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My condolences to all her family. I am sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Louise Buors (Friend) on: Jun 23, 2013
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Ursula was a great teacher for me. While on the surface our roles might have appeared reversed, she taught helped me to understand so much about living through her caring spirit, her quick humor and steadfastness. My thoughts and prayers are with your family and friends. - Posted by: Barbara Signer () on: Jun 23, 2013
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Dearest Gunter, Cindy, and Family: I am sad to read about Ursula' s home-going but blessed to read this beautiful tribute to a truly beautiful lady!! It was an honour to meet this amazing woman, you Gunter and Cindy. May the Holy Father comfort and keep you all peaceful during this time of grieve and pain. Jennifer - Posted by: Chaplain Jennifer (Chaplain and Friend) on: Jun 22, 2013
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I had the pleasure of sharing this lovely lady's company for only a few brief moments and am very saddened to hear of her passing. She was truly so wonderful to be around, so funny and so endearing. When I told her that we were going to do our mental health rotation next she said "careful! I hear its contagious!" We both had a good laugh! May you rest in peace. - Posted by: Joelle (Student nurse) on: Jun 22, 2013
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Our deepest sympathy in the loss of your dear wife, mother and grandmother. Ursula was a lovely lady and will be greatly missed by all who knew her. - Posted by: Freda Van Niekerk and Richard Gatien (Friends from German Choir) on: Jun 22, 2013
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So very sorry to hear of Ursula's passing. She was an amazing woman, always very helpful, kind, dedicated and always with a warm smile. She will be missed. - Posted by: Harald & Marion Krause (friends) on: Jun 22, 2013
