March 20, 1922 - September 18, 2014
It is with great love and much sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Gertrude Konkin, at the age of 92 at Talarico Place Care Centre, Castlegar, B.C.
Gertie, the youngest child of Annie and Harry Kanigan, was born on March 20, 1922 in Kamsack, Saskatchewan. In 1935, the family moved to Perry Siding where Gertie resided until she married Fred Konkin and moved to Slocan Park in 1942. In 1989, they moved to Ootishenia and finally to Castlegar in 1996.
Raising four daughters, farming and growing a huge garden kept Gertie and Fred extremely busy. However, this did not prevent her from her love of singing in traditional Doukhobor choirs, at USCC prayer meetings and community celebrations. Gertie enjoyed singing duets with her friend, Nora Laktin with whom she produced an album entitled “The Love of God” in 1968. She also enjoyed singing with her brothers.
Gertie’s family was always her priority and it was important to her to keep in touch regularly. Her grandchildren were especially precious to her. We all will cherish the memories that she has left us. She always enjoyed entertaining and socializing - keeping in touch with past acquaintances and making new friends. Gertie was an active lifetime member of the USCC and throughout all her years she was sustained by a strong Christian faith.
Gertie enjoyed growing and preserving fruit and vegetables for display at numerous fall fairs in the Kootenay area. This resulted in her receiving many grand aggregate trophies and awards some of which are on display at the Castlegar museum.
Gertie will be remembered for her care of and concern for others, kindness, generosity, thoughtfulness, hospitality and zest for life. In spite of her illness, she never lost these qualities nor the ability to give good advice and encouragement. Gertie was a great cook and could easily provide a meal for any number of unexpected guests at any time. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and quilting.
Gertie and Fred enjoyed travelling. They frequented local hot springs (often with their camper van) and visited their daughters in Kamloops and Mission. International trips included Mexico, Cuba, Russia, Hawaii, Texas and California.
Left to remember her warmly are her daughters Anne (Ernie), Sharon, Gail (Merv), Lou (Al); grandchildren Suzanna, Brad, Becky, Hank, Tara, Jeff and Todd; grandchildren Avery, Tyler, Jacob and Aiden; and many nieces and nephews.
Gertie was predeceased by her brother Pete in 2011, brother Nick in 2008, grandson Bob in 2007, husband Fred in 2004, mother Annie in 1972, father Harry in 1953 and brother Fred in 1943.
Special thanks to all the staff at Talarico Place for their exceptional care and support, Dr. Merritt, relatives and friends that visited during her illness, Castlegar Funeral Chapel, the singers at the service, the cooks that will provide lunch and the grave diggers that will prepare the final resting place.
Funeral services will be held at the Castlegar Funeral Chapel at 9:00 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2014 with internment at Slocan Park Cemetery followed by lunch at Slocan Park Community Hall. Jordan Wren of Castlegar Funeral Chapel has been entrusted with arrangements.