Obituary of Mary Madeline CHOPP

May 7, 1913– Poland October 31, 2013 – Calgary, AB Our sweet angel Mary Chopp was called home peacefully from the Beverly Care Centre Glenmore, on Thursday, October 31, 2013 at the age of 100 years. Mary came to Canada from Poland as a young girl and grew up in rural Saskatchewan. She later married William (Bill) Chopp and they had two daughters; Kathleen and Carolyn. As a family they moved around the Prairies while Bill worked with the Canadian Pacific Railway, with Mary and Bill later retiring in Calgary in the 1970’s. In the various places Mary lived in, she reached out and connected to the church community. She was a member of the Catholic Women’s League for 70 years where she got share her beautiful singing voice. She sang in several church and ladies choirs. She loved life and was a devoted Catholic, her faith was always her strength. She was a devoted mother, proud grandmother, and wife for 44 years. Mary was an excellent cook and gardener. She loved flowers and nature, and took pride in her home and family. She was also a proud Canadian Citizen, even playing hockey in her younger years, holding the position of goalie. As a very independent and a very strong willed woman, she openly spoke her mind, and after she was widowed she lived on her own for 39 years. During this time, Mary was able to pursue her love of travel. She made several trips to Hawaii and visits to the West Coast. She loved bowling and played in a league. Mary lived in Frances Klein Centre for 25 years, Aspen Lodge for 6 years, and finally to Beverley Glenmore for the last 6 months of her life. She was witty and wise, an organizer and motivator. Mary was very much in control of her life and remained feisty and clear minded until her death. In her later years, despite health challenges she was known for her endurance and perseverance. Mary’s strong will provided strength to her family, who continued to learn through her experiences with aging. She was dearly loved and she will be greatly missed by her family, friends and those who knew her even for a short time. Mary is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Kay and Edward Shuya, and Carolyn and Orest Ewanchyna; three granddaughters, one grandson; two great-grandchildren and two and half great-great grandchildren; and her sister Mildred. Mary was predeceased by her husband William; her parents; eldest sister Sadie and a granddaughter Gayleen. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church (321- 90th Avenue S.E.) on Monday, November 4, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church (321- 90th Avenue S.E.) on Tuesday, November 5, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire memorial tributes may be made to the Beverly Care Centre Glenmore, 1729 – 90th Avenue S.W. Calgary, AB T2V 4S1 or St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church CWL, 321 – 90th Avenue S.E. Calgary, AB T2J 0A1. Her long life of 100 years was a gift to her family and those that knew her. Her family is grateful to Alberta Home Care for all the wonderful years of support that allowed her to remain independent, and to the Beverley Care Center Glenmore for making her feel at home. In living memory of Mary Chopp, 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.