Margarete will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Barb Yantha (Brian), and granddaughters Mandie (Alex) and Amber (Mike). She was predeceased by her husband Eli (Peter), in 2005. She will be remembered by her many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Margarete was born in Dortmund, Germany and experienced a difficult childhood being a nine-year-old when the war began. She was the last member of her family having been predeceased by her parents and 7 siblings, all in Germany.
She had a very independent spirit. She came to Canada a few years after the war at the age of 23. She came alone to a country where she knew no one and did not know the language. This strong-willed spirit was evident all her life.
She met her husband during English classes at the local German church in Montreal. Together they worked hard to build a new life together. She lived a full life as a wonderful mother, and homemaker as well as various jobs outside the home. Sewing was her passion. She made many of her own clothes and some of young Barb’s clothes. She used her tenacity and love for sewing to start her own business making custom drapery. She met many people and made many long-lasting friendships. Margaret and Peter enjoyed traveling to many places with their friends and family.
After she sold her business and was a widow she became involved with the local community center. She looked forward to volunteering and helping others and missed this part of her life when she started her dialysis treatments. She spent a lot of time socializing with her friends, going on bus trips, playing cards (usually winning) and driving around with her friend Nettie finding new restaurants to try.
Her greatest joys were her two granddaughters--her ”sweethearts”--whom she doted on. Oma and Opa were the favourite babysitters; their home was Mandie and Amber’s kingdom where their imagination had no limit.
In honour of her wishes, we will not be planning a service or memorial. There will be a private family burial. Those who wish may make memorial donations in memory of Margarete to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Although there will be no physical memorial, we will remember her love for her family, a happy and doting Oma and as a favourite Tante. Those that knew her well will agree that her memory was like no other’s, and she never lost it. Margaret and Peter loved being with family and hosted some memorable get togethers at their home with fun for all generations!
She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
A very special thank you to all the staff and medical team at Derbecker’s Heritage House for their never-ending care, compassion and thoughtfulness.
Messages and condolences may be left at www.tricitycremations.com.