Obituary of Colleen SMOLKIN

February 2, 1959 – July 4, 2012 Colleen Smolkin, beloved wife of Geoff Smolkin, mother to Tyler and Laura and dear grandmother to Kade, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2012 in the presence of her family at the age of 53 years. Colleen was born and raised in Calgary. Geoff and Colleen were married on February 28, 1978. Colleen worked for many years in the banking industry, taking time off to raise her family. Colleen’s greatest joy was travelling with her family. She loved the excitement of New York, the peacefulness of Hawaii, the mystery of India and cruising Europe. Colleen loved to entertain and insisted on hosting every special holiday. She had a wonderful sense of humor. She was a vivacious woman who had a zest for life, sparkle in her eye, and an infectious smile. Everyday was to be cherished and nothing taken for granted. She fought her disease with courage, and was an inspiration to all who knew her. Colleen is also survived by her siblings Jeannie (John) Crundwell, Colin Ward, Charlene (Jim) Irvine; brother-in-law Doran (Julie) Smolkin; sister-in-law Jill Smolkin; mother-in-law and father-in-law Debby and Barry Smolkin; Michelle Rechtmann-Smolkin and Glenda Elliott as well as many devoted nieces and nephews. Colleen was predeceased by her parents Mary and Earl Ward. Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W. Calgary, AB) on Monday, July 9, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, c/o Tom Baker Cancer Centre, 1331 – 29 Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 4N2 Telephone: 1 (866) 412-4222. www.albertacancer.ca/memorial. The family would like to thank the caring staff on Unit 47 at the Tom Baker Center and in particular Dr. Lupichuck and Dr. Sharma for their loving care. In living memory of Colleen Smolkin, 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