Margarete passed away peacefully on May 29, 2016. Born in Saskatchewan on January 26, 1919, Mom’s early life was on a Meota farm. During her teens, her father found work in Victoria and the family followed. Mom found her paradise! She married a handsome Norwegian, Andrew Gilstein (Andreas Gjelstein), and led an exciting, happy life. They initiated the purchase of Norway House and became Charter Lodge Members of Eidsvold #53, Sons of Norway. While raising a family, they formed a Norwegian “Leikarring” folk dance group, instructing for 30 years. Many concerts featured local artists and their three children performing with their accordions. Son, Rolf, was inspired to become a cellist and fulfill a career in the New Zealand String Quartet. Mom was very active and took pride in mentoring many throughout her life. 
Her love of gardening brought joy to all. The family’s stone covered garage with grass roof soon became an attraction. Her youthful spirit embraced too many interests to mention. Some lifelong pursuits were dancing, painting, bridge and the Victoria Lawn Bowling Club. Andy passed away in 1991 after 51 years of marriage. In 1995, Mom married Julius Sather, a dear family friend since the 1950’s. They enjoyed common interests and sadly, Julius passed away in 2009. Mom remained youthful through varied activities and her passion for gardening. 
In 2011, at the age of 92, Mom walked 3.3km (2miles) in the Victoria Day Parade and then walked back to the starting point.
She is lovingly remembered by daughters, Eleanor Gjelsten and Freida (Finn) Eriksen; son, Rolf Gjelsten (Helene Pohl); grandchildren, Drew Eriksen, Trina Eriksen and Peter Gjelsten; stepdaughters, Lori Sather and Valerie Comber; stepson, Don Sather; stepgrandchildren, Kody Williamson, Ali Comber and Troy Comber; also extended family in Canada, Norway and England.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Norway House, 1110 Hillside Avenue, on Saturday, July 23rd from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations to “Sons of Norway Foundation in Canada” (Margarete Gilstein Memorial Bursary) c/o Eidsvold #53, 1110 Hillside Avenue, Victoria, BC V8T 4A7 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 106 – 1001 Cloverdale Avenue, Victoria, BC, V8X 4C9 would be appreciated.
The family wishes to thank the amazing caregivers especially the best doctor in town, Dr. Michael Miles. We would also like to thank Jimmy for helping Mom so much these last couple of years and thank you McCall’s Funeral Home for your special care.
These links show our Mom.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxIE3n1lVcY
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
15 Responses
Dear Eleanor and Family, I was so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. She was always at Norway Hall and I just assumed she would be there forever – in a way she will be as she will continue to be with all of you.
Thank you for your lovely note and the attachments, Eleanor. We both enjoyed seeing them so very much.
It was also a lovely send off you gave your mother, and we thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful music and seeing everyone at the hall again.
Freida & all.
I loved your mom. She gave me sage advice about life’s trials. She was a lovely mentor and I will remember and miss her. Her best advice to me about crap happening was “It’s not worth thinking about. It’s done now”.
Dear Eleanor and family.
I remember meeting your mom many years ago when we were students at Victoria High School. Her lifetime of achievements will remain in your lives always. May she Rest in Peace.
Marilyn Hewitt (nee Jickling)
Our deepest condolences to Freida, Eleanor, Rolf and your families. Margarete was respected, loved and will be missed by so many including us … Herb and Linda
My very best wishes to Eleanor, Freida and Rolf that they treasure memories of their mother who was so special to everyone who knew her. I was so very honoured to have her as my aunt. I treasure her artwork at Norway House every Sunday when we attend Folk Music.
Nancy Baal