In Memory
Gladys Grabinsky (nee Northey)
On the evening of February
1st, 2024, Gladys Grabinsky passed away peacefully in the loving care of her
oldest son Dale.
Gladys was born on April 18th, 1926 in Fort Macleod, the
daughter of Flossie and Gilbert Northey. She cherished her farm life and her 6
siblings, Kenneth, Clarence, Hertha, Tenny, Kay and Aldy. She often spoke
of how she missed the Sunday family meals, Saturday dances, star filled night
sky, the huge harvest moon, and their family horse “Tinker”. She attended the
McBride Lake school and made many life-long friends in Fort Macleod.
At the age of 17, Gladys
and her sister Kay moved to Nelson, BC. She took a job helping the war effort
to build parts for planes. She was a “ROSIE THE RIVETER”, a title she denied by
saying that she just held the doors while the stronger women riveted! When the
war ended, Gladys made her way to Calgary where she met Henry. They married in
1951 and together raised 5 children and created a welcoming and fun home for
any niece, nephew or friend who needed a place to stay or a cup of tea. She
believed in the power of kindness and inclusion, the importance of acceptance and
that “everybody matters”. Her heart and door was always open and she loved a
good joke! She was a dedicated Wife, a compassionate Mother & loving
Grandmother, a true friend, and will be deeply missed by many.
Gladys was predeceased by
her husband Henry and her beloved son Douglas.
She will be lovingly
remembered by her children, Dale (Jo-Anne), Tim (Marcia), Sherri (Courtney),
Ken (Vickie) as well as her 8 Grandchildren Krystal (Todd), Jason (Heather)
Kristopher, Shannon, Mathew, Richard, Samantha and Seth and 9 Great
Grandchildren; Connor, Hannah, Isabella, Emily, Henry, Kyliee, Kayden, Kameron
and Jordyn. Her life felt full and complete.
The family gratefully
acknowledges the Members of Bow Valley Lodge, her home in her golden years, and
the loving care of the Agape Hospice in her last months of need. A special
thank you to Jennifer Pablito, who cared for Henry in his passing and helped
Gladys in her recovery and became a dear friend.
In lieu of flowers please
consider a donation to The Salvation Army Agapé Hospice in her honor.
Memorial Service for Gladys
and A Celebration of Life to be announced.
In the words of her dear
friend and sister-in-law Rita “May the sun shine warm upon your face & the
wind be always at your back.”
Rest In Peace Mom
Forever in our hearts.