Anna Schmidtke. 1924 - 2016. Our beloved Mother, Anna Schmidtke, passed away on December 19, 2016. She is survived by her brother John Mohr, children Heinz (Iris) Schmidtke, Dorothy (Wes) Jamieson, Annamarie (Jack) Flewelling, Doris (Len) Burchill, Brenda (Lionel) Bohn, 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Born into a family of 7 in Rybalsk, Ukraine, she later trained as a nurse and worked at a hospital where she assisted doctors with injured soldiers during WWII. Her fluency in 5 languages helped her immensely. She and her husband Stephan and baby Heinz immigrated to Canada in 1949 through a Church sponsorship program in Saskatchewan. They eventually moved to Rhein, SK, where four daughters were born. They learned the English language from their children's school studies. Their dreams of owning their own property came true. They purchased a farm near Dunleath, SK. Mom was a bit of a Martha Stewart. She was very proud of her baking abilities. Friends and neighbours stopping in for a visit were treated to a table full of food and were always welcomed. There was never a shortage of canned goods, smoked meats or garden vegetables. In addition to helping Dad and the kids work the farm, she made time to hand sew her children pajamas, blouses and knit sock or scarves. She had a great love for gardening. She was proud of awards won for their beautiful yards and gardens in Dunleath, Kelowna and later in Claresholm. Another love was to crochet doilies and stars for the Christmas tree. Her beautiful Christmas stars will be seen hanging on the family trees for many years to come. Retirement years in Kelowna were some of the happiest years. The area and climate reminded them of their birthplace. They had an incredibly beautiful yard of fruit trees and flowers. In Claresholm, life slowed down and health began to fail. Mom was diagnosed with a brain tumour in her mid-80s. After surgery and treatment, she was given the gift of a few more years. Her family admired her incredible strength and courage during these years. She was loved and will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Until we meet again Mom, rest in peace. The family would like to thank the Nursing Staff on the Â鶹ÊÓƵ Unit of the Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre and Dr. Leishman for their wonderful care. A private family service was held at the Peace Lutheran Church, Claresholm. Arrangements and cremation entrusted to Willow Creek Funeral Home, Claresholm. Tel: 403-625-3212. Condolences may be forwarded to the family at .
