Obituary of Teresa Anna Maria Ralcewicz

September 30, 1962 – Flin Flon, Manitoba

November 8, 2023 – Calgary, Alberta

Dr. Teresa Ralcewicz, beloved wife of Brian Emms, passed away on Wednesday November 8th, while holding his hand. She will also be dearly missed by her brother, Henryk Ralcewicz of Winnipeg, Manitoba, her extended family members and all her lifelong friends.

Teresa was filled with enthusiasm and energy for life. She had an incredible ability to walk into a roomful of strangers and in no time would know everyone by name. She was friendly, engaging and was interested in everyone’s stories. From teaching, to writing, to travel - Teresa followed her heart. She always loved meeting people and discovering new places from around the world. Her unfulfilled dream was to publish a novel - given more time she may yet have accomplished that as well.

Teresa was born in Flin Flon, Manitoba but grew up in Lynn Lake, Manitoba. Graduating from high school with honours, she furthered her education at the University of Manitoba, obtaining a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in science, culminating in her Doctorate in 1994. 

She was a passionate teacher instructing future doctors and nurses at the University of Manitoba, eventually lecturing medical courses at Red River College where she was instrumental in starting the Bachelor of Nursing program.

Inspired by stories from her social studies high school teacher, Teresa very early on embraced a life of travel and adventure, going to Europe with her girlfriends, solo travel down under to Australia, where she would make many lifelong friends, discovering Japan and Asia with her brother and encountering her future husband on a tour of the USA. 
 
Teresa married Brian in 1996, moving to South Africa where her African adventure continued with her doing numerous African wildlife safaris, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and camping in the Okavango delta. Her travels continued with trips to South and Central America, hiking in Patagonia and the Inca trail, snorkelling in the Galapagos Islands and holidaying in the Caribbean.

Returning to Canada in 2006, Teresa and Brian made Calgary, Alberta their final home. Here too, she discovered the beauty of the West, exploring the mountains and national parks.

She was an avid runner, completing the New York and London marathons as well as many others internationally. Running was a way of life for her, providing her great inspiration of mind and physical outlet.

This summer, Teresa managed to do one last travel adventure, going on a polar expedition cruise to Iceland and Greenland despite the health issues that had plagued her for the past two years.

Teresa, you will be dearly missed by all and will forever be in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. You were our inspiration. You will be remembered for your strong willpower, unwavering positivity, and zest for life.

“Tomorrow is never guaranteed, only today. Live your life with positivity, adventure, laughter, and love.”

Funeral Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Graveside Service to follow at Eden Brook Cemetery. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mrs. Ralcewicz’s service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Teresa’s family here.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Teresa’s memory directly to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, https://albertacancer.ca/. Please indicate that your gift is in honour of Teresa.

In living memory of Teresa Ralcewicz, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive SW, Calgary, AB T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

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