February 1, 1928 – January 20, 2013
“Hetty” was a remarkable lady, inspiring all who knew her with her imagination, inventiveness, exceptional leadership and unceasing pursuit of history and languages. She came with her parents to Canada from the Czech Republic in 1939, settling in Tomslake, BC. She taught in a nearby rural school until marrying Ed and starting a family in Dawson Creek, where they lived until moving to Victoria in 1975. Over the years, she was active in many clubs and societies, including the Catholic Women’s League, arts councils and theatre groups, and she volunteered at the Royal BC Museum and Craigdarroch Castle, each for 20 years. Hetty also served as President of the Victoria Edelweiss Club and its Harmony Choir for many of her 35 years’ membership.
She will forever be remembered as a kind and loving mother and wife. Her greatest joys were in the sharing of our achievements, …..and poetry. Left to mourn her passing are her husband, Edward; daughters, Irene, Margaret, Sylvia, Lorraine and Carol; sons, Wilf and Frank and families.
A reception celebrating Hetty’s life will be held at the Victoria Edelweiss Club, 108 Niagara Street on Tuesday, January 29 at 4:00 pm. Expressions of sympathy may be made through donations to the ALS Society (www.alsbc.ca/donate). Condolences may be offered to the family below.
…there is no greater love than a Mother’s Love….
14 Responses
I knew Hetty through my time at Craigdarroch. She was always such a joy and pleasure to work with. My heart and prayers go out to Frank and the rest of the family during this difficult time.
Dear Edward and Family
The news of Jetti’s passing was a terrible shock to me as I was out of the country. My deepest and heartfelt sympathy and I am so sorry that I could not attend the funeral.
Cousin Hermine.
As a fellow docent at Craigdarroch Castle, I have fond memories of Hetty (as I knew her). We were both on the Friday afternoon shift and sometimes I met her walking up Oak Bay Avenue and we continued on together. I offer my sincere condolences to the family.
I remember your Mother from the few times I visited your home to ask Sylvia out. I fondly remember her kindness and know that she worked hard in bringing up the family.
Whilst this is a hard time for all of you I hope that you can celebrate her achievements and cherish the love that she obviously shared with all of you.
God bless,
Eric Apperley
Christchurch, NZ