Obituary of Rose Mary Dykes

June 2, 1951 – Wilkie, Saskatchewan

December 7, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

 

It is with profound sadness that we announce Rose Mary Dykes (née Wandler) of Calgary, AB passed away on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the age of 73 years. Rose grew up in the small hamlet of Cando, SK, and spent her formative years in the nearby town of Wilkie, SK where she attended high school.

 

Rose thought fondly of her childhood; growing up on a farm where she embraced the values of hard work and family. From helping with chores to preparing and sharing hearty meals like homemade noodles and freshly baked buns, her upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for the joys of togetherness.

 

As the third of six sisters, (Linda, Dorothy, Lorraine, Doreen, and Josie), Rose thrived at the heart of family life, always eager to be part of the action. A gifted storyteller, she delighted in entertaining those around her with vivid tales—especially her signature “scary stories” of the “Tailypo” variety that left listeners on the edge of their seats.

 

After graduating high school in 1969, Rose moved to Saskatoon, SK to pursue her teaching certificate at the University of Saskatchewan. It was during this time she met the love of her life, Dave Dykes, and in a whirlwind romance, they were married within six months.

 

Throughout their long and happy marriage, Dave and Rose were blessed with their children, Jason Dykes in 1975, and Jodi Dykes in 1978.

 

Rose and Dave shared an incredible 50 years of adoration and adventure. Together, they lived in Edmonton, AB, Saskatoon, SK, Ottawa, ON, and Calgary, AB, embracing new beginnings with each move. Among their many homes, the Victorian house they lovingly restored in Saskatoon, SK held a special place in their hearts. Rose’s passion for antiques and eye for décor brought a unique charm to every space they called home.

 

Travel was one of Rose’s greatest joys, and New York City, NY, USA held a special place in her heart. Her first visit to the ‘Big Apple’ in 2001 with her son Jason ignited a lifelong love for the city. Over the years, Rose returned more than seventeen times, often accompanied by her husband Dave and, on a few occasions, her beloved grandchildren, Kelvin, Brooklyn, and Jasmine Harris. Whether she was exploring Broadway shows, enjoying concerts, wandering through museums, or savouring meals at classic delis, these trips were never just about the sights—they were about sharing moments and creating lasting memories with the people she loved.

 

Rose's caring spirit was evident in her role as a daycare provider. For years, she opened her home to children, creating an environment filled with warmth, creativity, and fun. Families fondly recall her as someone who made their children feel genuinely at home. Living in central Saskatoon, SK, she walked the children to the library, crossed what they affectionately called the “Rosie Bridge,” visited the forestry farm, and sometimes topped the day with a delicious treat from the local bakery.

 

In 2021, Rose retired from her daycare and moved with Dave to Calgary, AB to be closer to their daughter Jodi, son-in-law Shane, and grandchildren. Though they had planned to enjoy retirement together, their time was tragically cut short. Dave passed away suddenly—just 14 months after their move.

 

Despite facing immense loss and battles with Parkinson’s and Crohn’s disease, Rose remained resilient. She took joy in nature walks, striving to maintain her goal of 10,000 steps a day. Whether attending her exercise class or walking to her neighbourhood coffee shop, she formed connections in the community, making even a bustling city feel close-knit.

 

Rose leaves behind a beautiful legacy of devotion and humour, cherished by her surviving sisters and brothers-in-law: Linda (Dave) Fouhy, of Sonningdale, SK, Dorothy (John) Wolchack, of Saskatoon, SK, Doreen (Clint) Fyke, of Saskatoon, SK, and Lorraine (Tim) Murphy, of Saskatoon, SK. She will also be lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, and their families, as well as Dave’s extended family, including his siblings, Mary Dykes, of Saskatoon, SK, Margaret Dykes, of Saskatoon, SK, Jeff Dykes, of Saskatoon, SK, Douglas (Linda) Dykes, of Saskatoon, SK, Roddy (Shawna) Dykes, of Saskatoon, SK, and all their children. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

 

We take comfort in imagining Rose being reunited with her husband Dave and her son Jason, embraced in their loving arms and surrounded by the countless family members and friends who have gone before her.

 

Rose’s wit, loyalty, vibrant personality, and flair for cheetah print fashion will forever remain in our hearts. Over the years, Rose and her daughter Jodi often exchanged heartfelt notes, borrowing Tina Turner’s iconic words to remind each other they were “simply the best.”

 

Rose, you truly were.

 

A Memorial Service, in honour of Rose’s life, will be held in the hall at St. Paul’s United Church (454 Egbert Ave, Saskatoon, SK) on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. A private interment will be held where Rose will be placed to rest at Fish Creek Columbarium in St. Patrick’s cemetery in Calgary, AB, together with her husband Dave and her son Jason.

 

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Rose’s family here.

 

In living memory of Rose Mary Dykes, 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.