Maria Elisabeth Opoka
September 13, 1932 - October 16, 2024

Maria Elisabeth Opoka was born in Germany on September 13, 1932, and passed away peacefully on October 16, 2024, in her own home as was her wish.

Maria is survived by her children, Ronald and Caroline (predeceased by her daughter, Christine), and her three cherished grandchildren, Hayley, Brooke, and Cadence. She was immensely proud of her family, who she adored deeply.

Maria was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend, admired by all who knew her. She grew up in a large family of 12 siblings in Germany and bravely immigrated to Canada in the early 1950s. She recently celebrated her 92nd birthday in September, a long life filled with love, adventure, and resilience.

Known for her lively spirit, Maria danced multiple times a week, loved playing bridge, and had a deep passion for travel. She cherished her family, creating wonderful memories with her granddaughters. She valued her independence, even driving until the age of 90.

Although dementia presented challenges in her later years, Maria’s resilience shone through. She continued to find joy in life’s simple pleasures, like walks through the park and feeding squirrels, embracing beauty in life’s quiet moments.

Maria’s life was marked by courage, independence, and joy. She was a remarkable woman, adventurous and spirited long before her time. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the memories she created with her loved ones.

In honor of Maria’s wishes, there will be no immediate service. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a later date. True to her character, Maria would encourage those who wish to honor her memory to “Save your money and spend it on yourself!”