It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gladys Mary Ann (nee Balaberda) Walters on June 22, 2013 in Victoria, BC at the age of 68. She passed away suddenly but peacefully in the presence of family after a recent diagnosis of cancer.
Gladys is survived by her children, Tannis and Jarret Walters, her son-in-law Todd Gillick, her grandsons, Marcus, Benjamin and Kyle and former husband Warren Gary. Born to Claude and Josephine Balaberda in Melville, Saskatchewan, Gladys was the seventh of 15 children. As the first of her siblings to pass, Gladys will pave the way for the six brothers and eight sisters who loved her dearly. Gladys was adored and admired by all and will be deeply missed by the friends and family she leaves behind.
Gladys was a hard working, professional and dedicated career woman. She attended a technical school in Regina, Saskatchewan and graduated as an x-ray technician in 1965, later settling on a career as an ultrasound technologist. Throughout her career she worked at St. Peter’s Hospital in Melville, Yorkton Regional Hospital, MSA Hospital in Abbotsford, Mission Memorial Hospital and Saanich Peninsula Hospital, retiring in 2009. Gladys was also a successful Mary Kay beauty consultant who enjoyed making women look and feel good.
Gladys lived a very active lifestyle; she enjoyed curling, golfing and walking with friends. She loved travelling and always looked forward to her next adventure. Gladys was a devoted Catholic with a warm and generous heart who will always be remembered as very spiritual and loving person.
A Mass to celebrate Gladys’ life will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, June 27th at SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH, 4040 Nelthorpe Street, Victoria, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency or Victoria Hospice.
The family is very grateful for all those who assisted and supported Gladys in her final days. Condolences may be offered below.
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33 Responses
So sorry to hear of Gladys’ passing. We worked together at the Medical Arts Clinic in Regina some 48 years ago. She was a wonderful person and a good friend. We still kept in touch – we’ll miss her annual Christmas card. Our sincere condolences.
Norm & Irene Vickers
To the family,
I wish to offer my condolences on behalf of Ken and I. I remember your mother as a feisty woman. She accomplished a lot in her career. May God Bless your families now. Ken Gayle Tomchuk
Tanis and Jarrett, with a very heavy heart, I am so sorry about your mother. Enjoyed many years working with Gladys at Mission Hospital. She always had a positive, cheerful attitude, and no one could be more kind and caring.
To know her was to love her.
I sorrow with you in your loss. Gladys was a kind and gracious co-worker and loving mother. It was a privilege to get to know her.
Tannis Todd and kids
We are so sorry about your mom and Grandma
we of course never met your mom but heard many wonderful
things about her from my sis Linda
We are just so sorry you have to go thru this so soon about your dad Bill passed on Todd. It is very hard.
You have many wonderful memories so keep those close
we love you all
Larry and Pat
Springfield Mo , USA
I worked with Gladys at Mission Hospital. Even when life wasn’t going smoothly, I never heard her say an unkind word about anyone or anything. Although your mother, grandmother, sister, & friend died far too young. she left her indelible mark on everyone who knew her.
Dear Tanis and Jarrett
When Auntie Merle called and told me that Auntie Gladys had passed away I was very sad. I have great memories of visiting with her when she came to Melville. She always made a point of looking us up so we could get together. My thoughts and prayers go out to you both. Take care of each other and hopefully we can keep in touch
From all the Walters in Melville – Hazel, Susan, Cherylynn, Judy, Shannon and Barton and their families
Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Gladys was a beautiful person with a kind heart. She will be missed.
This is a sad time and words just never seem to convey an adequate message. We’re thinking about you Tannis and your family. The loss of a parent sets us on a path that we walk alone even though we are in the company of others. We are thinking of you and hope you find comfort and solace in the love of your family and friends.
Bill and Susan
Dear Tannis and Todd and Family,
Our sincere sympathies to all of you. Although we never met her she sounds like she wan an amazing women and I am sure she will be deeply missed by everyone, but especially you Tannis. We are with you in thoughts and prayers.
Sending much love – Don and Mary