Obituary of KORPAN – Goldie Grace

December 27, 1924 – August 21, 2010 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, and sister, Goldie Grace Korpan on Saturday, August 21, 2010 at the age of 85 years. Goldie was born and spent her early years in Mortlach, Saskatchewan. She received her registered nurse’s training at the Winnipeg General Hospital and graduated in 1947. She nursed in hospitals in Georgia, Colorado, Vancouver and Dauphin before marrying Walter (Wally) Korpan in 1951. Wally was her life partner and constant companion. Together they made their homes in Estevan, Willow Bunch, Ashern, Dominion City, Flin Flon and Brandon as Wally’s career with CIBC progressed. Wally devoted much of his life to community service and Goldie was always there – a tower of quiet strength and the quintessential hostess, always prepared to entertain whoever dropped by. They loved to travel. First there were road trips and camping with the two girls and then winter holidays. Hawaii was a favourite location as was spending time with friends and family in Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and Mexico. The trips to Australia, New Zealand, Bali and Hong Kong satisfied their desire for more exotic adventure and just a year ago, Goldie sailed through the Panama Canal. Goldie was an avid sports fan. She loved hockey and could tell you the name of all the players on the teams. She curled and spent many winter weekends at bonspiels. However, her passion was football and the Saskatchewan Rough Riders. She liked her team to win, but it was just as important to play a good game. Mom played a good game. We will remember her wonderful pies, her interest in birds, idyllic days at Sandy Lake, the good-natured ribbing of her sons-in-law, the enormous pride in her daughters and the accomplishments of her grandchildren. She will remain in our hearts forever. Left to cherish her memory are two daughters, Denise (David Koss) and Wanda (Fred Seeley); grandchildren, Vance, Shane, and Lisa; brothers, Doug, Wallace, Kelvin (Helen) and Ron (Carol); sister Laura; sisters-in-law, Clara and Betty; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Wally of forty-nine years; parents, Ethyl and William; brother Bruce; and sisters, Etta, Olga, Alma and Velma. A Celebration of Goldie’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E., Calgary) on Saturday, September 4, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation, 675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. Our special thanks and deepest gratitude goes to the staff of the Rockyview Hospital and the Southwood Hospice for their compassionate care during Mom’s brief stay. In living memory of Goldie Korpan, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Fish Creek Chapel, 14441 BANNISTER ROAD S.E. Telephone: (403) 256-9575.