In Loving Memory Of
Emma Louise Eckhardt
Emma Louise Eckhardt passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 19, 2019, in Grande Prairie, at the lovely old age of 95 years. She has joined the love of her life, John Eckhardt, to whom she was married for 55 years.
Emma was born on October 1, 1923 in Prairie Grove, MB where she grew up on a family farm with her sister Ruth Haack. She married John Eckhardt in 1947. Together, they continued to farm the land for many years. As with the farming life, there is a strong commitment to community and Emma was an integral part of hers. She belonged to the WA (United Church Women’s Association) and loved to dance. While on the farm, Emma and John raised three children: Carol-Lee, Ron, and Adele. In 1975, Emma and John moved off the farm and into the town of Dugald. She moved into the house of her dreams. It was designed by her daughter, Carol-Lee, and built by her husband and family. As her children grew up and flew the nest to Alberta, she developed a career from what she did best: caring for people. Emma’s natural compassion for people lead her into a career in homecare. She went to Red River College to obtain her Homecare Aide certificate when she was well into her 60’s. She was a master caregiver and earned respect from even the most demanding patients. She retired at age 73.
With all their children in Alberta, Emma and John decided to move to Grande Prairie in 1995. They wanted to be close to their grandchildren. She was superb in making her kitchen the welcoming place of her home and was a wonderful cook, although she could rarely provide an exact soup recipe for us to follow. And, she had many because John had to have soup as a first course with every meal except breakfast.
Like all of her past successes, she was an amazing grandmother to Emma Jr., Riley, and Kaylee, and became an integral part of their lives in Grande Prairie. Her “grandmothering” reach extended to Conrad and Julia who lived in Calgary. In 2002, Emma found herself widowed and without John, her life’s partner. She continued to be a nucleus for her family and made other enduring friendships along the way. A special one was with the late Len Smith.
Emma devoted her life to having purpose. She could put a sparkle on anything, especially with her smile. People gravitated to her and felt a connection. She was easy to be with and had a kind-hearted soul. She was our Queen and she leaves all of us to mourn the loss while, at the same time, able to reflect and celebrate her amazing life.
Please join our dedication service and tea on Friday, March 22, 2019, at 2:00pm, at Oliver’s Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave.).
On Tuesday, October 1, 2019, Emma’s birthday, a service and interment ceremony will take place at Green Acres Cemetery, in Winnipeg, MB, time to be determined.
A very special thanks to the Mackenzie Place Staff, Palliative Care and Liz Melainey who provided Emma with exceptional care and companionship.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Red Cross Society (109, 10014 102 St., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 0R2) or to Heart and Stroke of Alberta (144, 5241 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB, T6H 5G8).
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Emma Louise Eckhardt October 1 1923 March 19 2019..
Death notice for the town of: Grande-Prairie, Province: Alberta