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DARLENE DONA ANTOINETTE SCHMIDT (STOJAK)
Born: Aug 15, 1943
Date of Passing: Nov 23, 2020
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
DARLENE DONA ANTOINETTE SCHMIDT
(STOJAK)
August 15, 1943 – November 23, 2020
Remembering her with love is her husband of 56 years, Barrie; daughters, Laurel (Art) Whittington and Lisa (Barry) Lane and her four beautiful grandchildren, Tanner, Carly, Alex and Alyssa. Mom will also be missed by sisters-in-law, Judi (Denis) Meier and Susan (Dave) Instance; along with her many cousins and friends. Mom is now reunited in Heaven with her loving parents, Michael and Irene Stojak and in-laws, Max and Anne Schmidt; as well as many others that she has missed dearly over the years.
Mom was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on August 15, 1943 to doting parents, Michael and Irene Stojak. Although she was an only child, Mom was blessed to grow up with a large, tight-knit extended family. Whether it was in the city, at the family Homestead in Gimli, or occasional road trips to Chicago, she was always surrounded by all of her 'Mosalowski Family' aunts and uncles and her many cousins, who were as close to siblings as one could get.
Mom grew up in the Norwood area of Winnipeg, attending school and making some incredibly special lifelong friends. For over six decades, she always cherished her girls' trips and get-togethers with her 'Norwood Girls:' Brenda, Judy, Sharon, Linda, Kathy and Jane. She was always beyond grateful that they were all able to stay together and remain so close throughout the years.
After meeting at a Norwood dance – or 'Canteen' as it was called back then, Mom met her partner for life. Mom and Dad were married at the Norwood United Church on October 10, 1964.
The early years of marriage saw them make several moves between Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Calgary, until making the final move back home to Winnipeg in 1983. Along their journey, they had their two beautiful daughters, created years of wonderful memories and formed many special friendships and relationships – many that remain as close to our family today as they were back then.
Diagnosed in the late 1980s with Scleroderma, Mom faced the symptoms and progression of the disease over the years with unbelievable courage, grace, strength and resilience. Never being one to complain or dwell on the negative, she chose to continue living her life as normal - working, taking care of her family and staying involved and active within her friendships and the community.
During her working years, Mom found herself at several different places of employment over the years – from candy striping as a teen, to selling real estate in Calgary; but her longest and most rewarding part of her career was the 25 plus years she spent at the Manitoba Real Estate Association, before retiring in 2008.
Mom also enjoyed being a long-time member of the international sorority, Beta Sigma Phi. She joined in 1974 and remained an active member throughout the years. Her years in Beta Sigma Phi was instrumental in helping her to forge countless friendships and relationships with her sorority sisters in Saskatoon, Calgary and Winnipeg.
In her free time, Mom adored spending as much time as she possibly could at the family cottage in Gimli. She loved nothing more than having the cottage overflowing with her family, especially her grandchildren. Tanner, Carly, Alex and Alyssa were truly the lights of her life.
As us girls and the grandkids got older, Mom and Dad finally took time out for themselves and discovered Maui. For four years, until health issues prevented them from travelling too far from home, Maui quickly became their happy place. Mom and Dad would spend several weeks per year there, and they soaked up every glorious moment. In true friendly and loving 'Darlene style', even though they went without their own kids, they ended up forming a very special bond over the four years with a young couple who they lovingly referred to as their 'Maui Kids' and they spoke about them often and with love.
It was no surprise. Mom was a 'giver' in every sense of the word, always thinking of others before herself and lending a helping hand wherever and whenever she could. Mom had a genuine gift of always bringing an instant sense of warmth, kindness and love to anyone she met.
Sadly, Mom's Scleroderma really took a hold on her body over the past two years, robbing her of her busy lifestyle, her mobility and her fierce independence. Throughout it all, she never allowed it to kill her spirit, or her gratitude for all of the love and support she received throughout her life and right up to her last moments.
We thank the team of doctors and specialists who fought for her along the way, especially her long-time friend and GP, Dr. Brian Sharkey. Mom had a strange sense of pride that her patient file was the biggest in the whole office – she mentioned it again just a few days before she passed. We're sure that file represented all that she had gone through over the years and her refusal to give up on beating her disease.
Special thanks to the incredibly loving staff at the Grace Hospice for the care Mom received. You all made her stay feel like she was at a resort being pampered with loving care, compassion and kindness. Not a day went by that she didn't mention how wonderful, gentle and patient you all were with her.
The family would also like to extend heartfelt love and gratitude to Mom's friend and neighbor Linda Brayshaw. You were always there for both Mom and Dad - doing anything and everything you could for them. Mom absolutely loved you to bits. You are our personal angel and the loving sister Mom probably always wished for.
We love you Mom. Thank you for being our rock, our strength and our glue. Thank you for teaching us by example; kindness, compassion and respect for others. Thank you for always believing in us, but gently steering us and being our guide. You were the most incredible role model in every way - for us, and for everyone who knew you.
"Love you bunches and bunches and bunches, and lots and lots and lots."
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, as well as Mom's wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life may be planned at a later date when it's safe to do so.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Scleroderma Manitoba in memory of Darlene at www.sclerodermamanitoba.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2020
Condolences & Memories (10 entries)
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I became a Realtor in 1985. Then was encouraged to get involved in volunteering with the Manitoba Real Estate ASSOCIATION in about 1989. This is where I first met Darlene. She was the CEO's (Brian Collie) right arm. She was such an integral part of MREA and so good at what she did over her many years there. This was especially evident as I became president of that organization in 1997. Darlene was the oil to a well running machine. She made our jobs as volunteers so much easier in providing us with everything we needed and making sure we were well prepared. I also ended up selling a few condos in their building on Grant Avenue over the years. I know that Darlene had some influence in recommending me to a number of the condo owners in her complex. When my daughter Kelsey passed away from cancer in 2006, Darlene prepared some food for our family and made sure we received it as we dealt with our grief. She was a wonderful lady and I will never forget her. Her professionalism and her caring manner will always stand out in my mind as well as in the minds of the many people she touched in the real estate field over her years of involvement... My condolences to Barry and the entire Schmidt Family. - Posted by: Cliff King (Co-worker, friend) on: Nov 20, 2021
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I want to thank you all for the beautiful offers of condolences and memories. They bring back memories for me. Linda McDonald, was the car you described Mom driving the one she attempted to take over the bridge at BDI? I remember her telling us how she scraped it all up and was so afraid of what Grandma (Irene) would say. Rick, Gary and Ken Stojak I would love to reconnect with you to learn more about our Stojak side of the family. Luv you all who have posted and so happy my Mom was loved by so many. Laurel Whittington - Posted by: Laurel Whittington (Daughter) on: Dec 16, 2020
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Firstly a message to Barry, Lisa and Laurel. My thoughts and love are with you as your mourn our special Darlene. What a beautiful tribute one or all of you wrote to her. It summed up her and her life so well. Wonderfully written with much warmth and love. I'm the "Australian branch" of the Norwood girls. Darlene arrived in Norwood in Grade 6 (latecomer compared to the rest of us) and quickly became one of us. We spent a lot of time at the Pinedale house being directed by "Mrs. Stoges" as we called her mother. She loved all of us! I remember when Darlene got her drivers license she drove around in her mother's white Chevy with the big wide wings - big cars in those days, the 1950s. Fast forward to the 1990s and to the present. I've lived in Australia since the mid 1970s however made many trips home, and often for Christmas. The Norwood gang always got together and us girls would gather as often as we could when my husband and I were in Winnipeg. When the 7 of us were 50 we had a reunion which was a weekend pyjama party. It was so much fun that we planned a reunion every 5 years after that. Our last one was August 2018. Darlene was not well but she sure wasn't going to miss it. Like the trooper she is, she joined in on all of our activities (mostly talking non-stop and eating!) and didn't miss a thing. We all treasure those special times we had together. I was planning a trip to Winnipeg earlier this year, as I knew that Darlene had failed since August 2018 and I wanted to see her before she decided that life on this earth was no longer much fun. Covid put paid to that idea, of course. She and I had Facetime chats every few weeks for the past few years, as well as zoom calls with all the girls since this April. Dear Darlene, we know you were suffering and you had to leave us. We will miss your lovely smile, sense of humour and warm friendship. We know you are now at peace. Much love, Linda - Posted by: Linda McDonald (One of the Norwood girls) on: Dec 05, 2020
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Dear Barrie, Laurel, Lisa and families. We were saddened to hear of the passing of our cousin, Darlene. We last saw Darlene at Ken’s wedding and later exchanged e-mails about her plans to create a family tree. We remember her as a gentle, kind and humble person - so different from the rest of the rowdy and loud Stojak cousins. May you find the strength to endure the grief. Hopefully happy memories will soon help to relieve some of the pain of your loss. Rick, Gary and Ken Stojak - Posted by: Dr. Rick Stojak (Cousin) on: Dec 03, 2020
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I met Darlene at Sorority many years ago. She was truly an amazing woman and had a heart of gold. I will treasure the time I had spent with her and will never forget that wonderful smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Andrea Montagnon (Sorority Sister (Xi Alpha Chapter)) on: Dec 01, 2020
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Brian and I were lucky to spend 3 years chumming with Darlene and Barry and two other sorority couples. We took turns going to each others places and meeting to go swimming and restaurants all together. I was happy to give Darlene my blonde wig when she told me she was hating her thin hair in August 2019 unfortunately the day I brought it she was too sick to see me. She phoned me the next day and sent me a lovely note I will miss Darlene her smile and our talks and at sorority functions as we were now on different chapters. Hoping Darlene is now at peace. Brian & Diane Johnstone - Posted by: DIANE & BRIAN JOHNSTONE (Sorority sister Xi Alpha chapter) on: Nov 29, 2020
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Our thoughts are with you at this sad time. We have such fond memories of your family as neighbours ... we had such a great time Your mom was a beautiful brave lady who was a friend to all. Consider yourselves all hugged. - Posted by: Rich & Isobel Afseth (Old friend from Saskatoon) on: Nov 29, 2020
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I offer my sincere condolences to the entire family. Stu (my husband) and I met Darlene and Barry over 50 years ago in Winnipeg. We became very good friends and when they moved to Saskatoon we travelled there from Winnipeg many times to spend so many great times together. Darlene was an amazing person. She was so much fun and there wasn't anything she didn't tackle. She was always happy. We moved to Vancouver and lost track of Barry and Darlene. I recently connected with Darlene and we spent hours on the phone catching up. It was like no time had passed. That is what great friendships are about. I love the story of Darlene's life. She is in a happy place and she will be missed by everyone whose life was touched by her. Our friendship remains in my heart. Eunice - Posted by: Eunice LaRocque (Friend) on: Nov 29, 2020
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Although I only met Darlene once, I had the opportunity to play some violin for her at Lisa’s house. She was a sweet lady with whom I connected immediately. I just wish I could’ve had a little more time with her. My deepest condolences to Lisa and all the family. My prayers are with you as you prepare to celebrate this wonderful lady. May your memories bring you peace and tears of joy and happiness. Hugs, Karen 🎻🙏🏻 - Posted by: Karen (Friend of Lisa) on: Nov 28, 2020
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Sending you all our deepest sympathy in the passing of Darlene. Although it’s been so many years since we’ve seen your family, I carry such love and respect for Darlene. I have so many fond memories of when you lived beside us in Eastview, and the times that we travelled to visit you in Calgary and Winnipeg. Barry, Laurel and Lisa please know that we’re thinking of all of you. Darlene was an amazing lady. May the sweet memories help you get through this painful loss and in time, may the grief fade and the joyous memories fill your hearts. Sending you all hugs. 💜 - Posted by: Kathy Campbell (Afseth) (Family friend ) on: Nov 28, 2020