Victoria’s Obituary
Victoria May Gach was born June 5th, 1952 in Peace River, AB to Sid and Bessie Gach. Vicki grew up on a modest farm outside of Nampa alongside her older brother George, younger brother Larry. They were hardworking but happy; close to many cousins and neighbours who lived nearby.
After graduating from Peace River High School, Vicki began working at the Peace River Hospital in reception and soon met the love of her life, Boris in March 1973. After a short courtship they married July 1973. Together they built a home and started a family in smith, AB in 1978.
While in smith Vicki stayed at home caring for Aimie and Curtis. She surrounded herself with other mothers in their neigbourhood which stayed friends throughout her life. Once the kids were both in school, Vicki began to work for the local newspaper preparing the paper for print. After 10 years in smith Vicki and Boris moved back to Peace River in 1988 where they opened their own business selling Rainbow vacuums.
Coming back to Peace River allowed Vicki to spend more time with her mother, brother’s and their families. She could watch her nephews and niece grow and raise Aimie and Curtis with them. There were many family gatherings, graduations, weddings and eventually, great nephews, nieces and grandchildren. Vicki and Boris traveled when they could – summers in Manitoba visiting Boris’ family to Alaska, Fiji and Bahamas. Vicki’s working career extended from reception at the Peace River Provincial Building, Freson IGA Head Office and MNP. She met and worked with many wonderful people.
Vicki was able to care for her mother Bessie and Boris who’s health began to fail before her own diagnosis of Stage 4 Lymphoma in 2016. Through many rounds of chemotherapy, radiation and even a stem cell transplant, Vicki fought with all she had. Sadly in between treatments she lost both Boris and Bessie within months of each other. With unbelievable courage Vicki carried on for two years before her own battle was lost.
April 18th, 2020 Vicki passed away peacefully in Peace River, AB. In her last days, Vicki’s closest family and friends gathered in fellowship and solidarity outside her window of Sutherland Place Continuing Care Centre day and night to let her know she was not alone in her fight. Aimie and Curtis were able to be by her bedside.
Vicki will forever be lovingly adored by her daughter Aimie (Josh), her son Curtis, her two granddaughters Anna and Isabella, her oldest brother George (Isabel), younger brother Larry (Cathy), nephews Darren (Amanda), Shawn (Becky and sons Dryden and Quinlan), Trenton and Braden, Niece Larissa (Luke and daughters Emma and Abby), extended family and dear friends.
Vicki was predeased by her father Sid, mother Bessie and her best friend and husband, Boris.
Vicki was selfless, kind, caring and strong; a gentle mother, a proud, doting Baba, a loving sister and cherished friend. Her family finds solace knowing she is at peace, forever young and dancing with Boris again.
“There are no goodbyes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.”
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Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Victoria Karpiak June 05 1952 April 18 2020..
Chapel of Memories Funeral Homes & Crematorium
Death notice for the town of: Peace River, Province: Alberta