KROETSCH, Eileen Annie Kroetsch

On Tuesday December 23, Eileen Kroetsch (nee McKinnon), passed away peacefully in Victoria at 101 years of age.  She was predeceased by her husband Fred in 1979 and her son Kevin in 1985.  She is survived by her remaining seven children:  Mary-Eileen (Bob), Isabelle (Peter), Margaret, Neil (Elise), Norm (Kathleen), Rick (Linda), Paul (Beth) as well as her 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Eileen was born on April 21,1924 in Surrey Centre, one of 13 children born to Norman and Mary Jane McKinnon.  Her childhood years were spent on the family farm in Surrey Centre until she enlisted in the RCAF during the Second World War. She trained as a wireless operator and was posted to Patricia Bay on Vancouver Island.  It was there that she met her future husband, Fred Kroetsch. They married in 1947 and began their life together in Montreal.  Subsequent moves included Vancouver, Toronto, Sudbury, Portage la Prairie, Winnipeg, London ON and Windsor ON.

As if raising her family of eight didn’t keep her busy enough, Eileen decided to pursue her own post-secondary education.  She completed her teaching degree and went on to earn a master’s degree in library science.  She worked as both a classroom teacher and as a school librarian in Ontario.

After she retired, Eileen moved back to her home province of British Columbia, settling first in Brentwood Bay and then Sidney.  She believed in staying active and involved with her community.  Her many activities included Scottish country dancing, golf, lawn bowling, newcomers club, walking club and hiking club.  Eileen was also an enthusiastic volunteer, donating her time and expertise wherever needed.

She was a spunky, clever woman, with a dry sense of humour that kept you on your toes. She will be missed dearly by her family.

Eileen’s funeral will take place at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 3 at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church located at 10030 Third St. in Sidney BC.

Condolences may be offered to family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

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