Following a courageous battle with cancer, we announce with profound sadness, the passing of Anka Sugden who passed peacefully at the age of 86 in her home surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Born in Hamburg, Germany, in July 1940, Anka came into the world during World War II. Her childhood and early years were shaped by the extraordinary events of the War and its aftermath.
Despite the difficult circumstances of her early life, Anka went on to learn English in high school, which led to her first job as an international telephone operator in Germany. After marrying in Germany in 1960, she and her husband moved to his family’s home province, British Columbia, Canada. In 1961 she became a mother with the birth of her daughter Angela, and again with the birth of her son Ian in 1964. Anka and her family then moved to Burlington, Ontario. As her children became full time students in elementary school, Anka pursued a new career as a Laboratory Technician. In 1980, Anka reinvented herself again after pursuing further education at College and became an Executive Secretary. Through hard work, and sound financial planning, she concluded her working career at the age of 60, retiring from Bayer Canada as the Administrative Assistant to the President.
Anka was able to pursue many interests in her retirement, including travel, cooking, cards (Bridge and Euchre), and opera. She took great pride in her grandchildren Evan and Emma, and loved to share her varied interests and experiences with her friends and family.
Anka is survived by her children Angela (Nick), Ian (Joanne), her grandchildren Evan (Myriam), and Emma, as well as her family in Germany including her cousin Hans Joachim (Ulla), and her nieces Nina (Michael), and Melanie (Armin) and her great nephews Tim, Moritz, Christopher, Constantine, and Raphael. She was pre-deceased by her father Otto, her mother Leni, her sister Etta (Walter), and her former husband Adam.
Anka’s family wish to thank everyone who provided such great care during her cancer journey. In particular, her friends and neighbours, her family doctor (Dr. Van Straalen), the entire palliative care team at the Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, the assistance provided through Ontario Health at Home and Acclaim Health, including Dr. Kazem, and nurses Ashley and John. Their kindness and gentle care was greatly appreciated.
In lieu of flowers, friends and family may consider donations in memory of Anka to the charity of their choice. There will be a Celebration of Life for Anka at a future date….where friends and family can share stories and cafe and kuchen – Anka’s favourite things.
