Elizabeth Senderek

On the morning of February 12, the Lord came and whispered to Elizabeth, "Peace Be Thine" and carried our shining light home to her husband Walter and son Zbyszek as they were missing her very much. Left behind to grieve her passing is her daughter Rycarda Smith (Linden), her last remaining siblings in Poland and several nieces, as well as many friends.

Elizabeth was the oldest of eight children born in Obidza, Poland. In 1950 she, packed up her daughter and crossed the Atlantic by ship to meet up with her husband, Walter, who had left two years earlier to work in Canada. She travelled from Halifax to Edmonton by CN train with no English, but four other languages, only a destination to Calgary on a piece of paper and blind faith in her man, with Rycarda under her arm. This is the essence of Elizabeth, quiet courage, determined resilience unconditional love and belief in her family. She was her own woman, independent to the end and very individual. Her quiet poise, selfless kindness, never an unkind word and non-judgmental style was an inspiration to her children and others. She nurtured with love both her family and her beloved flowers and garden. She baked legendary cakes and cookies, made fluffy perogies, baked the most delicious breads, as well as canned and cooked.

She was an inspiration and an example for all who knew her, an immigrant who built a new life for her family with a determination and a relentless and indomitable optimism - a woman of faith, family and friends. Her kindness and generosity touched all who met her. We are all profoundly grateful to be touched by someone who will forever inspire us.

Elizabeth was known for her delicious cooking and her bountiful garden with vegetables of every sort and the most amazing flower garden in all of Exshaw.

With dignity, my mother endured much sadness in her long life, but remained a lady until her final day. Suffer no more my sweet mama. May you be well, happy and peaceful in your next journey.

Love always, Rycarda and Your son-in-law Linden.

I wish to acknowledge the care given to my mother by the Paramedics, staff and doctors at Canmore Hospital. Great gratitude to many friends who performed may acts of kindness. Thank you all so very much.

Funeral Mass was celebrated Wednesday, February 20, 2013

in Our Lady of the Rockies Parish, Sacred Heart Catholic Church

in Canmore.

Friends wishing to remember Elizabeth may make donations, in her memory the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, with grateful thanks,

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.