February 1, 1931 – December 3, 2023
It is with sadness, but peaceful hearts, that we announce the passing of our Mother on Sunday December 3, 2023 at Forest Heights Long Term Care in Kitchener. Mom was in her 93rd year.
Mom was a kind, gentle person who was content to just sit back and listen, a dedicated and hard worker, and a good friend to many.
Mom is reunited with the love of her life, her husband Neale, who passed away February 24, 2022. They had celebrated their 70th Wedding Anniversary on September 8, 2021.
She leaves behind her children Cheryl Oliva (Dennis -deceased Sept. 2018), and Brian (Nancy -deceased April 2002). Proud and loving Nana to Braden James (Rita), Amy James (Andre), Courtney (Jamie Colwell), Andrew Oliva (Cathy), Craig Oliva (Kristen), and Lauren (Matt Ferraz). Adored Nana Ruth to Steven, Brooke (deceased April 2008), and Adriane da Terra, Bryce Colwell, Armondo James, Emmett and Ryan Oliva, Hudson, Eden, and Myles Oliva, and Rowan Ferraz.
Mom was born to George and Alice Smith (née Derby). Predeceased by her brothers Glen, Bill, and sister Jean Lovejoy. She is survived by her brother Ivan (Pat), sister-in-law Marilyn (John Stubbs), and many nieces and nephews.
Mom was born in Sheffield, Ontario and moved to Galt (Cambridge) when she was 8. She attended St. Andrew’s Public School. When she graduated at 14, she went to work to help out her family, and worked at the Galt Wooden Heel.
At the age of 34 she was offered a job by her cousin Hugh Reid to be the first employee of Reid Candy & Nut Shop. A long, dedicated employment followed, working into her 70’s and helping out at Christmas when she was still able. Many reading this will remember our Mom, with the curled brown hair and lovely smile, selling you Flip Chips.
Her Reid’s family were very important to her and she enjoyed the good times together.
Mom and Dad were members of Lincoln Avenue United until it closed in 2003, First United until amalgamation in 2017, and now Wesley United. Mom was a member of the “Harmony Unit” at Lincoln and always eager to bake for Bazaars or help at fundraising dinners. She was renowned for her pies, butter tarts, and shortbread cookies. Mom also took part in a number of Variety Shows at Lincoln singing songs that carried her through the years.
In her early 80’s Mom developed Alzheimer’s and spent her last two years at Forest Heights. We are grateful for the care she received and the compassion shown. Through the incredible “reconciliation“ work of Jenn and others, Mom and Dad were able to share a room from Sept. 2021 until Dad passed in February 2022. After 70 years of marriage this was a battle worth fighting for to keep them together. Sunday Dad got his bride back, may the dancing resume!
A Celebration of Life will take place in early January 2024 at Little’s Funeral Home (223 Main Street, Cambridge). More details to follow.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Mom’s name to Wesley United Church, the Alzheimer’s Society, or the Canadian Cancer Society.
