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ELIZABETH GLADYS WIJTKAMP
Born: May 10, 1940
Date of Passing: Aug 06, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryELIZABETH GLADYS WIJTKAMP
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, who peacefully passed away at age 86, surrounded by loved ones. We find comfort in the knowledge that Elizabeth enjoyed a full and beautiful life.
Elizabeth leaves to mourn her devoted, loving husband Peter of 59 years; daughters, Anneke (Sean), Marieke (Brad); son P.J. (Melanie); and her cherished grandchildren, Parker, Gunner, and Joel. She also leaves behind her brothers, Bob (Nona), and Murray, as well as beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. Elizabeth was predeceased by her parents, Aidan and (Flora) Gladys Conklin, and sister-in-law, Joanne.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Elizabeth attended both elementary and high school in St. James. After graduation, Elizabeth turned her love of children into a career and earned her teaching certification, and for many years taught Grade 1 in the St. James School Division.
During the summer of 1964, Elizabeth travelled with a friend to Europe, where, thanks to a train mishap in Spain, Elizabeth met Peter, the love of her life. Their relationship continued to blossom in 1965, when she accepted a post in Germany to teach elementary school children on an army base. Many trips between Holland and Germany ensued.
Elizabeth and Peter married in 1967 and built their life in Winnipeg, settling in St. James with their three children. Elizabeth was very involved in her children’s education and activities and was always there to help with homework or volunteer where she could.
From childhood through adulthood, Victoria Beach remained Elizabeth's absolute favourite place, where she made priceless memories, surrounded by family and friends. As an adult, she enjoyed pouring her energy into cottage projects, organizing family gatherings, exploring tree-covered trails, and visiting with her beloved Aunt Rosemary and Aunt Verona. Her favourite pastime of all was spending long afternoons picking wild berries in the hot sun with her devoted dog, Skippy, for bear protection.
Elizabeth also loved travelling. The family visited Holland multiple times and later enjoyed vacations with the grandchildren. Peter and Elizabeth really loved their other trips and cruises too, especially with cousins, John and Noreen. One of the most memorable vacations was Elizabeth and Peter’s 50th Anniversary Caribbean cruise with their family, which included the making of the movie, 'Murder on the High Seas!'
Elizabeth had a diversity of other interests and passions. From her bridge club to church unit meetings, choir practices, puzzling, writing, event planning, and gardening including her prized canna lilies. One activity that took priority over all else though was spending time with her grandchildren. Elizabeth was at her happiest when crafting, reading, birding, baking, or exploring with them. She was their biggest cheerleader and champion.
After taking a break from teaching to raise her family, Elizabeth returned to school at age 46 to earn a Bachelor of Education from the University of Manitoba. When she could not secure her preferred elementary school teaching position, she adapted and shifted her focus to eldercare. At age 53, she earned a certificate from Red River Community College and launched a new career as a care home Activities Coordinator.
Elizabeth was a lifelong devout member of Westminster Church and fulfilled a diversity of roles over the years, including teaching Sunday school, participating on committees, and singing in the choir. Whenever there was a need, people knew they could count on Elizabeth and that every task would be completed to the very best of her ability.
Elizabeth continued her life of service by dedicating many years to volunteering at International Hope Canada, a non-profit that sends medical equipment and supplies to countries in need. Using her excellent organization skills, Elizabeth managed the medical dressings and transformed it into one of the most meticulous sections in the warehouse. Elizabeth would be so incredibly proud to know that her daughter, Marieke, is now carrying out her work there.
The fact that Elizabeth had so many wonderful friends is a testament to what an incredibly loyal, caring, giving and kind person she was.
We are especially grateful to Brigitte Funk and Noelle Tayfel for their companionship, compassionate care, and genuine love of Elizabeth during these last few years. We also want to express our sincere gratitude to the dedicated staff at Riverview Health Centre for ensuring Elizabeth was cared for with dignity and respect.
A Celebration of Life service and reception to honour Elizabeth will take place at Prairie Spirit United Church at 207 Thompson Drive in Winnipeg, MB on Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
Donations in Elizabeth’s memory may be made to the Westminster Church Foundation, 745 Westminster Avenue, Winnipeg, or International Hope Canada by contacting treasurer@internationalhope.ca.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 15, 2026
