lse Wilhelmine Schoenemann passed away peacefully in the early morning of Thursday, May 5, 2016 at the age of 96. She was predeceased in November 2014 by Wilhelm, her husband of 66 years and in 2005, by her older sister Elsbeth. Left to honour her memory are her four loving daughters: Christel (Gerry), Marlis (Greg), Heidi (Tim) and Carla (Andy); nine grandchildren: Megan (Cory), Shane, Matthew, Paula, Peter, Kiera, Mikaela, Aidan and Sophie; and three great grandchildren: Melissa, Jordan and Evan. Ilse was born in Oehna, Germany on Friday, November 14,1919 to Emma and Wilhelm Schlunk. Raised in this close-knit rural community, she was surrounded by extended family, neighbours and friends. There she developed the strong work ethic, discipline and practical skills that served her well throughout her long life. After the difficult years as a young woman during World War II and its aftermath, she met Wilhelm who had recently settled in Oehna. They married in 1948 with the expectation of raising a family and building a future in the community that Wilhelm had also embraced. However, in 1953 they made the very difficult decision to immigrate to Canada with their four-year-old daughter Christel in the hope of creating better opportunities. They put down their Canadian roots first in Yellow Grass and eventually Weyburn where Ilse worked hand in hand, side by side with Wilhelm. With much hard work and sacrifice they raised four daughters, learned a new language and a new way of life. Ilse was often a silent but always equal partner in all of their accomplishments. A much loved wife, mother, Oma, sister, aunt, cousin and friend, Ilse was kind and caring, trustworthy, generous and always had time to listen. Many enjoyable meals were prepared and served in her home. Guests were welcome, often at a moment’s notice, and there was always room for one more at her table. Ilse loved the land. For most of her life she had a large garden which provided fresh food for her family and gave her much pleasure and satisfaction. As a lifelong learner, Ilse enjoyed trying new things. She got her first driver’s license in her sixties which gave her some new-found independence. She kept up with current affairs and took her citizenship seriously. She liked playing games with her grandchildren and later in life, became an excellent Scrabble player even though English was not her first language. Ilse was a woman of quiet faith and a long-time member of Zion Lutheran Church. She happily participated in activities of the church, making many good friends along the way. With determination, she remained with Wilhelm in their home until her early 90’s. Even after her move to Hilltop Manor, she stayed involved and interested in family and the world around her, participating in different activities and meeting new people while still staying in touch with old friends. Ilse taught by example and leaves us with gifts of love, integrity, compassion and courage. She will be deeply missed and dearly remembered. Funeral service was held Saturday, May 14 at the Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn, with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Interment took place at Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. Donations in her memory may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn (306) 842-5432.
