Obituary of Lilly Arkus

ARKUS, Lilly

September 10, 1935 - Seimeny, Russia

January 25, 2022 - Calgary, Alberta

Lilly Arkus of Calgary, AB, passed away on Tuesday, January 25, 2022, at the age of 86 years.

Lilly was born in Seimeny, RU, on September 10, 1935, to parents Rosina and Jakob Joachim. She grew up during WWII, moving throughout Eastern Europe, from Russia, to Poland, and to East Germany.  In her early teens, she escaped from East Germany to join the rest of her family in West Germany.

She immigrated to Canada in 1957, landing in Montreal before making her way to Calgary.  While taking English classes, she met the love of her life, Ted. Lilly married Ted in 1963 and immediately started a family. Their son Tommy was born in 1964, and daughter Judy in 1966.

Lilly’s passion besides her family was golfing and dancing. In the summer, you’d never see her until the sun went down.  Lilly in fact had hit two holes in one in her golfing excursions.  Lilly and Ted took many ballroom dance classes and were always a treat to watch on the dancefloor.  She also enjoyed traveling with her husband and got to experience a variety of places in the world.

Lilly is survived by her son Thomas Arkus (Corley Bonk); and her daughter Judith Arkus, who both reside in Calgary, AB; as well as her dear nephew Frank Werner, who resides in Germany.

Lilly was predeceased by her husband Theodore, her parents, Rosina, and Jakob; and her siblings, Irmgart Werner, Siegfried Joachim, and Guido Joachim; as well as her two older half brothers that lost their lives in WWII.

A Celebration of Lilly’s Life will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, February 4, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Those attending will be asked to provide valid government identification (with name and date of birth) AND confirm one of the following: (A)Provincial vaccine record with QR code (paper or digital); OR (B)negative COVID test (within 72 hours); or (C)valid medical exemption (signed letter); OR (D)under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Lilly Arkus, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB T2X 3J3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.