Obituary
Karin Edith Brigitte von Heyking (nee Stillmark) of Lethbridge, beloved wife of the late Rolf von Heyking, passed away on Monday, October 31, 2022, at the age of 91 years.
Karin was born near Talsi, Latvia on July 21, 1931. After a childhood disrupted by war and refugee experiences, she immigrated to Canada in 1954. She settled in London, Ontario and worked for London Life. She married Rolf in 1959, was blessed with four children in the next decade, and was a dedicated mother. The family moved to Calgary in 1976 and as her children grew up, she re-entered the workforce, working for Woolco. She spent her final years in Lethbridge close to family.
Mom was incredibly strong, and a lovely and generous woman. She made a warm home for her family and welcomed everyone to her table. She was a woman of strong will and character. She lived through so much and raised us with love and gratitude for every opportunity we have had to build a good life. In a published account of her experiences as a refugee and immigrant, she was described as having “the ability to act and form something good out of any challenge.” We are mourning our loss but so grateful for the time we had and the legacy she leaves.
She is survived by her children, Barb Olafson (Kelly), Lori von Heyking, Amy von Heyking (Lance Grigg), and John von Heyking (Sonya); by grandchildren Kristin Trenholm (Jeremy), Karin Olafson (Dakota Mantyka), Andrea Olafson, Lindsay Smith (Logan), Emily Clink, Conor Grigg (Meagan), Alison Grigg, Geoffrey Sitwell (Alison), Evie Anderson, Audrey von Heyking, and Sebastian von Heyking; and, by five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother-in-law, Fred von Heyking, as well as a nephew, nieces, and their families.
Besides her loving husband, Rolf, Karin was predeceased by her brother Oskar and sister Renate.
We would like to thank the amazing doctors and nurses at Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary, and at the Jack Ady Cancer Centre in Lethbridge, particularly to Dr. Razavi and Nurse Katie for their wonderful care and compassion. Thanks to the doctors of the Family Medical Centre and to BJ Millman and the whole home care team for their care, and to the Palliative Care Unit at St. Michael’s who saw Mom through her final days. Thanks and much love to everyone at AgeCare Columbia who provided her with community and a caring home in the past few, often difficult, years.
A Funeral Service will be announced at a later date. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish may make memorial donations to the Alberta Cancer Foundation.
“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” – Isaiah 41:10
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Karin von Heyking July 21 1931 October 31 2022 (age 91)..
Death notice for the town of: Lethbridge, Province: Alberta