It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Mom/Oma, Marianne Schmalfuss. She passed away peacefully in the early dawn on April 16, 2017 at Mountain Lake Seniors Community after struggling with dementia. She was 81 years young.
Marianne was born in Austria to Hermine and Johann Rursch and was the second eldest child of 4. She left Austria and her family behind at a young age and landed in Prince George, BC where she met her husband, Manfred (married 48 years) and they built their first home. Their only child Michele was born January 18th, 1967. The family moved to Nelson in 1972 and have been there ever since.
Marianne was a fabulous cook and baker. Cheesecake and Black Forest Cake were just a few of the staples for the special occasions such as birthdays. She also prided herself in keeping a pretty much weed free garden, did all her own preserves and had a beautiful yard full of flowers.
Marianne had the biggest heart a woman could have and shared her love with her husband, daughter, grandchildren as well as many foster children who were lucky to have her arms wrapped around them, not to mention the furry folk she loved to spoil. It was this gift of love that gave her purpose in life.
Marianne’s door was always open for a visit, coffee and treats. She loved to entertain friends and family, caretaking and fussing over everyone. Her gift of love will live on in our hearts.
Marianne is survived by her daughter, Michele (Tony), grandchildren Chris Lenson, Jeremy Lenson, Amanda and Josh Creak, sister Else and brother Franz as well as nieces and nephews. As well as her foster daughter Kathy (Allan) and their son Ethan to whom she gave the gift of family.
Marianne was predeceased by her husband Manfred, parents Johann and Hermine Rursch and sister Hermine Ledwinka.
The family wishes to thank all the wonderful staff in Alpine Cottage at Mountain Lakes for all their compassion and care of Marianne over the past few years. A very special thank you to Earl Mowatt for all his visits with Mom. “You are a good one”. Also to Ida Hanson, for being moms best friend and being there with Michele to help Mom into her next journey.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society or SPCA
A service and reception will be held on Monday, April 24, 2017 at 11:00 am at the Cathedral of Mary Immaculate, 813 Ward St, Nelson, BC.
Arrangements are under the direction of Thompson Funeral Service. Online condolences may be expressed at www.thompsonfs.ca