Calpas – Sophia Josephine Calpas (Sulik), Jo or Josie to many, passed away peacefully on September 28 at the age of 102 with her family at her side. Jo was born on May 31, 1918 on a farm near Kenaston, Saskatchewan. She was baptised by her father at birth and later baptised at St. Andrews Roman Catholic Church in Kenaston. Josephine went to school near her home as well as a convent in Forget, Sask. She also went to Spokane, Washington to take a telegraph course. Josephine worked as a housekeeper, a garment sewer and a clerk and she bought her own home in 1955. Her faith was a huge part of every day of her life and she was involved for many years with the Catholic Women’s League as well as the St. Jude’s Alter Society. She looked after her mother for many years until her death in 1961. Her hobbies included reading, crocheting, knitting, sewing, and crossword puzzles. Jo was always ready to play dice or sit down for a competitive game of cards anytime. Her love of books remained with Josephine for her entire life and in her later years she discovered audio books. Her skills as a card shark never rusted as she more often than not, was victorious over any challengers. Josephine was introduced to her future husband George Calpas by a mutual friend and they were married in 1963. They set up a life together in Tilley, Alberta and a year later had adopted Howard and Jeanne and for the next 50 years they loved each other and watched their family grow. Josephine was a wonderful cook and no one ever left her home hungry. They lived on the farm until 1987 when they retired to Brooks. It was then that she discovered the joy of yelling “BINGO” more than most. After George passed away in 2014 Josephine continued to enjoy her family particularly giving her great grandchildren rides on her electric wheelchair. Although she was quiet by nature nothing pleased her more than a visit from her family members or her friends. Josephine was predeceased by her parents, John and Katerina, her siblings: John, Catherine, Maria, Mary Rose, Anne, Emilia (Millie), Theresa (Helen), Christina, George and Martha. She is survived by her son Howard Calpas and his daughter Lindsey and her children; Kia, Justin, Jackson and Archer. Daughter Shannon (Andrew) and their child Oliver. Son Ryan. Son Shawn (Nicole) and their children; Michael, Alex and Lily. Daughters; Abbigail (Abby) and Taylor. Josephine is also survived by her daughter Jeanne Morishita (Barry) and their daughter Marissa (Tyler) and their children; Brooklyn and Parker and daughter Katelyn. She also leaves her sister Frances McKinley, her brother –in-law John Calpas and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. A family only Mass was Celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rev. Marino Infante Celebrant. Interment was held at Brooks Cemetery. In memory of Josephine, if friends desire, are requested that memorial donations be made to the Canadian Arthritis Association, 393 University Avenue, Suite 1700, Toronto, Ontario M5G 1E6 or St. Mary’s CWL., c/o St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Box 578, Brooks, Alberta T1R 1B5.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to:
SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM
BROOKS, ALBERTA
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