Obituary of Phyllis Rae Streukens

On Thursday, October 16, 2008, Phyllis “moved on” from this world, with her children at her side, to continue her “New Journey”. Phyllis was born May 5, 1932 in Assiniboia, SK. Phyllis attained her P.R.N., and while training at the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary, she met and married her patient and the love of her life, Peter Joseph Streukens. Phyllis left the nursing community choosing to become what life had undeniably called her to be; a Mother. Phyllis raised six of her own children; several of her children’s friends; neighbours and drop-in children as required. Her fridge was always full and her spirit accepting. Children frequently gathered at the “round” table for a lively meal, a competitive game of cards, or a necessary lecture from Phyl. Acceptance, laughter, compassion and love were the cornerstones of her home. Phyllis lived her life with unparalleled acceptance and a quiet, confident strength. Predeceased by her husband, Peter Streukens in 1975, Phyllis, at the age of 42, was left with six children ages 8 to 21. In a time that was overwhelmingly trying, Phyllis continued to live her life and face diversity with dignity, grace, and an inner strength that only comes through faith and trial. Through her actions, not her words, she passed along her unwavering commitment to family and her sense of loyalty and integrity; life lessons she gave to us all. Predeceased by her son Peter Joseph in 2005, Phyllis struggled with a heart breaking grief that would forever imprint a mother’s soul. Her love of family is deep and convincing. Persistence and perseverance were trademarks of Phyllis and a “never give up” attitude allowed Phyllis to live her life with purpose and success. In the difficult times, she would frequently instruct, “we just have to put one foot in front of the other”. Phyllis had the innate ability to nurture most things and took great pride in her spectacular gardens and all things in nature. Phyllis will forever be cherished and honoured by her children Vince (Sherry), Tamara, Michael (Andrea), John (Janie), and Mary Ann. Grandma will be deeply missed by Karen, Ethan, Amber, Michael, Meghan, Justin, Nicholas, Haley and Kirstyn. End of Life Celebration will be held at “Her Pub”, Mastersons’, on Friday, October 24th at 6:00 pm. In Phyllis’ words “dancing, yes dancing!” (for more information and directions please call 403-815-7608). If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers to the family, memorial contributions will be gratefully accepted by: STARS Air Ambulance, The Heart & Stroke Foundation and the Mustard Seed Foundation.Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Wong and the nursing teams on Units 74 and 73 at the Rockyview Hospital for their commitment to provide care; not only for our Mom, but for all. In living memory of Phyllis Streukens, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.