Gerri Zarkos

Harriett Geraldine Zarkos, longtime resident and business owner in Banff, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the Banff Mineral Springs Hospital on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 at the age of 84 years.

Gerri was predeceased by her beloved son Leslie David in 1974, and her loving husband Lester in 1997. She was the youngest daughter of Asa and Jean Archibald of Nanton Alberta, and was predeceased by her brother and three sisters, Leroy, Barbara, Emma and Leona.

Gerri is survived by her two daughters, Paulette Zarkos and Carol (Neil) Robbins, two grandsons, Brandon, (Jennifer) and great grandchildren Olivia, Hannah and Matthew and grandson Cody (Kelsey Claypool).

Gerri and her husband Les owned and operated the family run Welch's Chocolate Shop in Banff since 1964. Throughout her life Gerri was active in the Banff Seniors Association, Banff Royal Canadian Legion ladies Auxiliary, the Banff Mineral Springs Hospital Auxiliary, and took an active role in the Conservative Party of Canada. She was a very kind gentle soul who gave continuously to all those around her, with unconditional love. Gerri will be sadly missed by her family, the Thurston Family, her extended family and numerous friends.

A Celebration of Gerri's life was held Monday, November 21, 2011 in the Banff Park Church (455 Cougar Street).

The family wish to extend their sincere appreciation to Dr. Danaze Chambers, and the nurses and staff of the Mineral Springs Hospital for their exceptional care and concern for our mother, grandmother and great grandmother during these past few months.

Friends wishing to remember Gerri may make donations, in her memory, to the Banff Mineral Springs Hospital Memorial fund, to be used to create Palliative Care facilities in the hospital

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.