In Loving Memory Of
Gertrude Nilsson
It is with great sadness that the family of Gertrude Nilsson (nee Kuntz) announce the passing of their mother and grandmother, on Monday, March 15, 2021, in Grande Prairie, AB, at the age of 88 years.
Gertie was born on April 7, 1932, as the only Canadian-born child to Rosalia and Karol Kuntz. She spent her childhood on the farm in Wembley, AB. She attended parochial school and church at St. John’s Lutheran Church. She worked for room and board at the Wembley post office and store to attend Grade 10. As a young woman, she worked as a waitress at the Royal Café and other restaurants in Grande Prairie.
She married Earl Nilsson on November 3, 1952. As a young family, they spent their winters in the logging camp, and they lived in the west end of Grande Prairie for the remainder of the year. Around 1962, Earl and Gertie began homesteading in Grovedale, AB. Gertie raised a large garden, as well as chickens and pigs. In 1974, she began working in the hospital’s laundry department, and Gertie eventually held the position of Director of Regional Services. During her time at the hospital, she completed her Laundry Manager Certificate from Guelph University. She retired in 1992, and she and Earl enjoyed many hours of camping, fishing, and ice fishing together.
She leaves to mourn her children: Sandra Nilsson, Dorothy (Julien) Leduc, Peter Nilsson and David Nilsson (Pat); grandchildren: James Leduc, Heidi (Jeremy) Leduc, Peggy Nilsson and Cory Nilsson; brother Dan (Theresa) Kuntz; sisters in-law Vera Hansen and Olive Kuntz; special niece Carol Nilsson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Gertie was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Earl Nilsson; parents Rosalia and Karol Kuntz; sisters: Bertha Pitchko and Pauline Rubie; brothers Paul Kuntz and Joseph Kuntz; as well as many in-laws.
The family would like to thank all of the individuals who helped provide care for their mom. Your care allowed her to live at home until her passing.
A Viewing will be held on Friday, March 19, 2021, at 6:00pm to 8:00pm at Oliver’s Funeral Home following COVID-19 guidelines.
A private invitation-only Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, March 20, 2021, at 11:00am. A livestream will be available on Gertie’s obituary page on the Oliver’s Funeral Home website prior to the service. Interment will follow at the Grovedale Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to World Vision Canada (1 World Drive, Mississauga, ON, L5T 2Y4), or to a charity of one’s choice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Gertrude Nilsson April 7 1932 March 15 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Grande-Prairie, Province: Alberta