Anna Schalin (Weisner), age 93, passed away peacefully on 17th of March 2023.
Anna had resided her entire life in the Olds and region. She married a WWII veteran, William Adolf in 1949 (deceased 1987). Together they farmed in the Poplar Creek area and raised a family of 3 boys. In 1971, they suffered the tragic sudden loss of their oldest son - Allan. In the early nineties Anna moved into the Town of Olds.
Early on, in Anna's formative years, Anna was denied further educational opportunities with the passing of her mother and the need for paternal responsibilities for her childhood siblings. This intense responsibility would impact her values in her many remaining years.
Anna was very active on the family farm taking on never-ending chores and farming activities. She was very good with her hands and had the ability to accomplish everything she put her mind to. Anna used her garden, the poultry shed and her modest kitchen to keep her family well fed and the freezer full. Many a neighbor and relative was the beneficiary of hair styling, homemade children's garments, formal gowns, knitted goods, quilts and pillows. Despite her hectic day, Anna enthusiastically participated of the local Poplar Creek Ladies Sunshine Club.
As her family matured Anna moved on to become a school bus driver for several years. As the role model and forward-looking person, she was, Anna chose to use adult education opportunities to advance her credentials, thereby gaining the qualifications to become a valued, career bank employee.
Once retired, Anna travelled both domestically and internationally, vigorously searching out card games and being involved whenever possible in the lives of her grandchildren.
Anna's resolve and generosity amazed many people including her immediate family: son Alan (deceased), son Murray and son Gerald (Brenda), daughter-in-law Joan, her fully loved grandchildren: Amy, Calvin, Graham (deceased), Kristen, Elyse, Jeffrey and Julie and her fully-loved great grandchildren (16).
With her daily positive attitude and her pleasant demeanor, and always being receptive of a witty or humorous comment, many positive interactions and chuckles occurred within the residents of the greater Olds community over the many decades.
Anna's personality blossomed when it came to hosting family get-togethers and celebrations especially with her 7 siblings; 5 of which are deceased (Margaret, Hedwig, John, Gustav, and Dorothy) and Emil and Minnie who reside in the area. With all the enthusiasm one could imagine she filled the table with the delicious foods and filled the room with pleasantries, love, and goodness. There are many nieces and nephews, and their children with a warm spot in their heart for "Auntie Anna".
Anna's legacy is those many rich and loving memories many of us have that she was part of. Without speaking directly about it, she somehow influenced many "to do the right thing" and to be better people.
As Anna’s family we sincerely thank the staff at the Olds Hospital for their incredibly professional and personal care that mom received during her stay. Thank you to all the residents and staff at the Mountainview Lodge for their friendship, sense of community and kindness for the years Anna resided at this facility. A celebration of Anna’s life will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #105, Olds on April 17th, 2023, at 2:00 PM. If desired memorial donations may be made directly to a charity of your choice. Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., Olds entrusted with the arrangements. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com
