1931 - 2024
We are honouring the beautiful life of our mother, Pauline (Polly) Hopkins. She passed away on December 6, 2024, in Gibsons, B.C., surrounded by loved ones.
Pauline was born to Louis and Victoria Grudecki on June 26, 1931, on the family homestead in Acadia Valley, Alberta. She grew up on the farm with her six siblings and attended a rural school until she moved to Empress to finish her education. Pauline lived in Alberta all of her life until moving to Sechelt, B.C. six years ago.
As a young woman, Pauline met her one and only love, Gordon. They were married on a bitterly cold day in 1953 and were lifelong partners for the next 70 years. Mom kept busy raising their five children, Sharon (Phil), Murray (Susann), Lenard (Patci), Myrna (Parker), and Lucille (Mike). Pauline is also survived by her 9 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister Antonia Shubert and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Gordon and her great grandson, Theo.
Our Mom was a person of immense faith and throughout her life she always put the needs of everyone else before her own. She was a member of the CWL most of her life. Pauline had an incredible work ethic and found great contentment when being productive. In spite of having five children, Mom was proud to maintain an immaculate home. Throughout our childhood and beyond, Mom was known for her skills in the kitchen as she was an incredible cook and baker. Our family was fortunate to grow up with baked goods waiting for us whenever we came home. Pauline had a green thumb and worked as a florist for several years. Her appreciation of the beauty of Mother Nature was never more evident than when she moved to the coast.
Pauline loved to dance and listen to music! She and Gordon enjoyed Square Dancing for over 30 years. Mom also volunteered for the Calgary Police Service. Her greatest love was for her grandchildren. They were extremely important to her and one of the many ways that she showed her affection was by keeping the cookie jar full. Mom enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was in her element preparing meals for our large gatherings. She was loved by all that knew her and is missed beyond words.
Pauline’s family would like to express our gratitude to the wonderful staff at Christenson Village Cottage 3, for their loving care and compassion for “Momma Pauline”.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Holy Family Church (Sechelt) on Thursday, July 17th @ 11 am, followed by a luncheon. All are welcome.
