ELLA FELBEL

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ELLA (ELSIE) FELBEL (nee WALKIN) September 12, 1934 - April 14, 2016 Peacefully on April 14, 2016, in the wee hours, Mom passed with courage, determination, and dignity. Mom "The Energizer Bunny" was born September 12, 1934 in Kreuzburg, now Fraserwood, Manitoba: a little community seven km. west of Gimli. Mom was predeceased by her parents Julius and Katharina Walkin, her sisters Francis, Anne, Nettie, and her brothers Walter and Melvin. Elsie is survived by her husband George, of 60 years, eight months; her children: David, Brian, and Nancy; her remaining sister Mary Farrell; sister-in-law, Rose Diebert; brothers-in-law: Ted and Florence, Fred and Margaret, Emil and Sophie, and numerous nieces and nephews. Mom left the farm and ventured to Winnipeg to obtain a high school education which she did with flying colours. Elsie met George on a blind date in 1953. They continued their courtship and before you knew it, one day on the street car while escorting her home where she lived with her mother and brother at 262 Kensington Street, Dad proposed and gave her a ring. He always reminded her; "This was the street car named Desire". They were married on Dad's birthday, August 20, 1955 at the Lutheran Church of the Cross (on Alexander Avenue). I guess she knew this was something he could not forget easily. Smart move. The children were born rapid fire style, in March 1956, April 1957 and in September 1958. This kept Mom busy until they all entered into the school system. Mom worked at various and different jobs which helped to support the family. Mom was a woman of many talents and abilities. There wasn't anything she couldn't do. She was a great cook and baker. Brian always said; "Mom made the best perogies and cabbage rolls in the whole wide world." Mom taught herself to sew and later in her spare time Mom developed a great love for knitting; something she could do in the dark or while watching T.V., she always had a project on the go. Another great passion was her creative quilt making. This gave her great pleasure when she knew someone was having a baby, grandbaby and she was able to make a baby quilt or knit a hat and little booties. Her latest and greatest discovery was knitting what we called the "weekend woolen socks": which have given much warmth and comfort to so many friends and family. She enjoyed traveling, camping and fishing. She has several Master Angler awards. Over the past 11 years Mom, Dad and Brian enjoyed spending time at "their cottage" in Wild Oaks in Richer, MB. Mom always had a true connection with the outdoors. She loved to watch and feed the chipmunks, squirrels, various different birds, and even the occasional skunk. The family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Dr. April Boyd, surgical team, 3rd floor Step-Down unit, GA-3 ward unit and the Palliative Care staff. Special thanks goes to Brenda, Stephanie, Noel, Gord and all the nursing staff and health care facilitators for their compassion and care. Mom was an exemplary patient never making any demands; always putting others before herself. My mother was very appreciative of you all. Also thank you to our neighbours, friends and family for their expressions of concern and sympathy. A service conducted by Pastor Don Engel will take place Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Lutheran Church of the Cross, 560 Arlington St. (near Ellice Avenue). Viewing will occur 30 minutes prior, with a luncheon to follow. Interment to be held at Chapel Lawn Cemetery after the luncheon: 4000 Portage Ave. Pallbearers: Leonard Walkin, Darrell Diebert, George Wm. Felbel, Dennis Felbel, Bruce Farrell and Vern Walkin. Any donations may be made to the Lutheran Church of the Cross Fund, or to any charity of your choice. "We can take solace in the knowledge that she knew her own mind and chose her own direction." May she rest in peace

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 16, 2016