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ZOE ALBI (ROBINSON)
Date of Passing: Aug 23, 2020
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Health Sciences Centre Foundation
ZOE ALBI
(nee ROBINSON)
1937 - 2020
Mom, you will now join your loving husband Ray, your precious son Guy, your parents, Elvin and Alice; your brothers, Billy and Andrew; and your sister Claire. You will be greatly missed by myself, Christina (Steve); your brother Gerald (Betty); your brother-in-law Dr. Frank Albi; your grandchildren; your nieces and nephews; the Albi, Robinson, and Benediktson families; Sam Sarbit (Claudia); Matthew and Avram and the entire Sarbit family; your childhood best friends, Ruth and John Livingstone; your dear friend, Kevin Stevens; and your many other friends.
As I look at your beautiful smiling face in the photo, I am reminded why your mother aptly named you Zoe - because it means "Full of Life". You exemplified this in every action and every word, embracing every moment with love, passion and gratitude. And your love knew no bounds. From helping family, friends and complete strangers, you believed you were here to give back.
Born in Vancouver, BC, to Elvin and Alice Robinson, you were the youngest of five - an energetic and compassionate child. You put that energy to use in your love of sports. At the age of 15, you were named BC Female Athlete of the Year for excelling in basketball, softball, track and field and grass hockey. At the age of 18, you were invited to play for the Canadian Women's Basketball Team, which took you to three Pan-Am Games (1955, 1959 and 1963). In 1991, Dad, Guy and I travelled with you to Vancouver to witness your induction into the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
Sports weren't your only love, though. You moved to Winnipeg in 1966, met and married Dad, had two children, and as supportive and caring parents, raised both Guy and me.
Mom, you had a work ethic like no other. For 65 years, you were a dedicated secretary at various companies in Vancouver and Winnipeg. You later found your niche as a legal secretary for Sam Sarbit. Sam and you worked side by side. He was more than a boss. He was also your mentor, and you were a dynamic duo, helping countless individuals over the years. In November 2019, Sam's 50-year-legal career was celebrated, together with nine of his colleagues, at an event sponsored by the Manitoba Law Society. You were acknowledged at the same event for 47 years of quality service as Sam Sarbit's legal assistant - a well-deserved honour.
After Dad and Guy passed away, it was a godsend having you move into our home. For nine years, Steve and I got to be a part of your life. From hearing about your day to sharing his gourmet meals and watching movies to travelling and shopping; they were the best nine years of our lives. And I know you had a special place for Steve in your heart for taking care of us. And you always took care of my heart. There were many times when I was having a bad day, you would say, "Tomorrow is another day." I have never known anyone as selfless and loving as you. Always supportive. Always gracious. Always thankful. I was so blessed to have you in my life. You were my anchor. How did I get so lucky?
Thank you, mom, for everything you gave me. I will never fill your shoes, but until my last breath, I will do everything I can to honour your memory.
And in the words of one of your favourite Vera Lynn songs:
"We'll meet again, don't know where,
don't know when.
But I know we'll meet again some
sunny day.
Keep smiling through, just like you
always do.
Till the blue skies drive the dark
clouds far away…."
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, the St. Boniface Foundation or a charity of your choice.
May you rest in peace Mom,
and may your memory be a blessing
to all that knew and loved you.
To leave messages of condolences
to Zoe's family, please visit the
Winnipeg Free Press Passages website.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 07, 2020
Condolences & Memories (13 entries)
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I was so shocked to hear of Zoe's passing today.My mother had many dealings with Sam and Zoe was right along side assisting him. I too had the pleasure of dealing with Zoe. Our condolences to all. Zoe was a caring, classy and kind lady! - Posted by: Laelonnae Beck & Mary-Anne Beck (Clients) on: Apr 08, 2021
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Krissy & Steve, our hearts go out to you. Zoe was a significantly important part of your lives and the exceptional bond that you had was evident. It was beautiful to observe what a dynamic trio that you were! Zoe was loving, generous, playful and she always had a sparkle in her eyes. She is very dear to our family and holds a special place in our hearts. Her loss is deeply felt. Our most sincere condolences, JoElle, Jim, Magnus and Gunnar - Posted by: Joelle (Family) on: Nov 19, 2020
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Extending our deepest sympathy to the Albi family on the passing of their family matriarch Zoe Albi. Thank for sharing this beautiful tribute. It's evident that your mother touched alot of lives along the way and leaves a legacy of commitment to both family and community. Please know that our thoughts are with you at this sad and very difficult time. Staff and friends at the HSC Foundation - Posted by: Lynda Ruban (staff at Health Sciences Centre Foundation) on: Nov 10, 2020
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Was shocked and saddened to see the obituary on Saturday. We've known Zoe for about 20 years, thru the law office, and she was always such a joy to be around. Always enjoyed visiting with her, she always remembered details about your life and family. Amazing woman. Our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. She will be missed by many. - Posted by: Laurie & Michael Mark (Clients) on: Nov 09, 2020
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Chris, when you and Zoe joined our extended family, it seemed like a natural fit. Your mom was so happy for all of us, and sad alongside us when my mom fell ill. She celebrated with us and was so generous to Juliette and all the kids. She lit up a room. I am so glad our paths crossed as I feel so blessed to have known your mom. May she Rest In Peace and I hope our moms are having a hoot wherever they may be! Love always, Jean - Posted by: Jean Dalman (Cousin to Steve and Chrissy ) on: Nov 08, 2020
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Zoe, the mother of one of our daughter’s best friends, was truly a gem. As well as being a very smart and energetic lady, she exuded warmth, generosity and joy. I am so grateful that our family was connected to and touched by this awesome woman. Our hearts are with you Chris. Love, Bill and Deanne - Posted by: Deanne McDonald (Friend ) on: Nov 08, 2020
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I just saw this obituary today. I am so sorry for your loss. I was in the legal field for several years also, as was my late husband, who was also distantly related to Sam. Zoe knew my husband as well. I had many closings with Sam and Zoe. She was an amazing women, always full of life and such a beautiful smile. She was such a dedicated secretary and worker. I will always have the fondest memories of her. - Posted by: Sharon Greenberg (Acquaintance ) on: Nov 07, 2020
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Zoe our good friend for 70 years will be remembered by us as the most caring and generous person we will never know. Her energy enthusiasm was infectious and an inspiration to us all - we will cherish the memories of all the fun and adventures we had together. Our Families join us in the loss of a lovely Lady, - Posted by: Ruth & John Livingstone (Best Friends) on: Nov 07, 2020
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I work downtown and would run into Zoe and Sam 3 or 4 times a week. I have never met someone who loved life more that Zoe, always upbeat and full of cheer. I loved hearing about her day, her family, her job, or just anything. And she never missed an opportunity to ask how I was and my family.I am very sorry for your loss. She will be very much missed. - Posted by: Heather (A downtown buddy ) on: Nov 07, 2020
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Chris, your mom and dad gave me my first "job", babysitting you and Guy on Friday or Saturday nights. I remember your mom as a true lady, in the best sense of the word. I am so sorry for your loss, but I know your mom is happy and safe, reunited with your dad and Guy. - Posted by: Kathie (McMullan) Bartel (Friend) on: Nov 07, 2020
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My husband, Simon, and I ran gibsons grocery, in front of the Albi living quarters. We knew frank and your father, ray, as well as the rest of the family. Frank even had my husband write his wedding speech. I remember when your parents married. It has been many, many years. My condolences to you, and all your family. Lenore Kagan. - Posted by: Lenore kagan (Wife of Simon Kagan, gibsons grocery.) on: Nov 07, 2020
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Oh Chrissy - how sad I am for you! I know how close you were with your Mother! I loved when Zoey would come into the shop - what a whirlwind event! But I loved it as she was always so energetic and fun! Love you and Steve - take care, Love Sonia & John - Posted by: Sonia Feakes (Friend) on: Nov 07, 2020
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I work for a local courier company and Zoe would phone us many times a week. I always look forward to receiving her calls because she always made me feel so good. She had a natural ability to warm people up and make them feel like you were the most important person to her at that time. A very classy lady. I will miss you. My sincerest condolences to all that new her. - Posted by: Grant Beakley (Associate ) on: Nov 07, 2020