SOPHIA EVERDINA SCHAU

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SOPHIA EVERDINA SCHAU In the early hours of November 26, 2015, mom peacefully passed from this life to the next. Mom came into this world on October 16, 1926, in the Netherlands; a daughter for Herman and Wynanda Roelofs; and a sister for one-year old Bill. In her early years she showed a gift for music, singing with a band and successfully participating in singing competitions. Her gift of singing and love for music has been passed down through three more generations. During the worst of times in the Second World War Mom met a young soldier, a cook with a medical unit from Canada serving near her home. Walter Schau became the love of her life and in 1947, she left the life she knew to come to Canada and marry Dad. They remained committed to each other for almost 50 years, until Dad passed away in 1996. Mom was welcomed with open arms by Dad's large family. In turn, Mom devoted herself to learning the local customs and fitting in with her new family. Mom and dad wanted children, but for ten years it was not to be. They made the loving decision to adopt and soon welcomed Don and Bev. We remember many happy years and special occasions. Mom was a great cook and it was at her table that family often gathered for celebrations. With two young children it was time for church and Mom dove right in. Her love for music rekindled and she spent 48 years in the choir at the North Kildonan United Church. She was very involved in the United Church Women, eventually receiving the honour of a lifetime membership that she treasured. Whatever needed doing, mom was there, cooking, serving, knitting, crocheting and contributing in any way she was able. There are many babies who wore clothing knitted by Mom and many Christmas trees adorned with her crocheted angels. Mom especially loved babies and would often babysit for families that needed childcare so they could work. Some of her greatest joys were welcoming grandchildren and great-grandchildren into the world. One of her greatest sorrows was when her grandson only lived one hour. She immediately knit an outfit for him to be buried in. In her later years mom struggled with Alzheimers and physical infirmity. She received great comfort from the staff at Irene Baron Eden Centre and River East Personal Care Home and for that we are truly grateful. In this time of struggle the highlights of her day were visits from her great-grandchildren. Mom was predeceased by her loving husband Walter; her parents and her grandson, Ryan. She is survived by her children Don (Shelley) and Bev (Tim); grandchildren, Tyler, Deanna (Chris), Laura (John), Crystal, Erryn; eight great-grandchildren; her brother Bill (Tiny); and many nieces, nephews and friends. Mom's life will be celebrated at North Kildonan United Church, 174 Pentland St., Winnipeg on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Marc Whitehead officiating. A private family interment is planned for a later date. Flowers grateful declined. In Mom's memory, donations to the Canadian Mental Health Association or the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba are welcomed. Green Acres Funeral Home in care of arrangements. Mom, we love you and miss you. Rest in peace. GREEN ACRES Funeral Home and Cemetery (204) 222-3241 Condolences may be sent to www.greenacresfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 28, 2015