DRAUDE: Gisella (nee Pratchler)
Gisella passed away peacefully on the morning of her 90th birthday with family by her side. Gisella was born April 25, 1923, in Isztimeri, Hungary. Her parents, Maria and John Pratchler, immigrated to Canada in 1927 and settled in the Muenster area. Gisella married Adolph Draude in October 1944 in Muenster, and began farming in the Naicam area where they raised seven children. Adolph and Gisella devoted their lives toward raising their family, building their farm and supporting the St. Martin's parish and the community in which they lived. Gisella was an extremely selfless and tireless worker and provider for her family and community. In addition to the countless hours she spent caring and providing for her family, she would always make time to volunteer where needed. Gisella taught catechism at Spalding school, and was a dedicated member of the St. Martin's Christian Mothers church group and became active in St. George when St. Martin's closed. Gisella's life changed abruptly on September 26, 1970, when, at the age of 53, Adolph was tragically killed in a tractor accident. After the accident, Gisella remained on the farm, operating it with the help of her children. She lived on the farm until October 1995, when she finally retired and purchased a home in Naicam. Gisella lived in this home for nine years until 2004 when she became a resident of Churchview Lodge, and more recently, a resident of Chateau Providence, St. Brieux. Gisella will be laid to rest next to her husband Adolph in St. Martin's Cemetery. Gisella's family has greatly appreciated your many acts of kindness and comforting thoughts. A special thanks to all of the staff and her friends at Chateau Providence and the Naicam Lodge. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the St. Martin's Cemetery fund, Chateau Providence, St. Brieux or the Churchview Lodge in Naicam.
