Redelback – Karen Redelback of Brooks, succumbed to cancer, passing away at the Brooks Health Centre, on Thursday, January 7th, 2016, at the age of 67. She was born in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan on December 17th, 1948, to Arthur and Helen Kurtz. Their family moved to the Brooks area in 1949, and she received her education locally. She met George and after a period, the two of them were married on August 15th, 1964, when she was just 16 years old. Karen worked as a waitress in the café, then as a telephone operator for AGT, before finally landing permanently at Gold Medal Seeds as a bookkeeper. This was where she remained for 38 years until her retirement in 2009. It was here she met many acquaintances from the surrounding communities, in addition to making many lifelong friendships. Karen was a consummate home maker and cook who enjoyed time spent at the farm with family. She enjoyed reading, gardening, and her relationships with animals. Karen was predeceased by her husband, George, of 47 years; and her parents, Arthur and Helen Kurtz. She is survived by her son, Randy Redelback, and his wife, Margo; daughter, Stacie Cressman; two grandchildren, Sage Redelback and Ross Redelback; sister, Eileen French; brother, Gary Kurtz and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. She will be lovingly remembered for her wisdom, kindness, and giving of herself to her children and grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, January 14th at 2:00 PM from Trinity Lutheran Church, Brooks. Honorary Pallbearers will be Dale Redelback, Pete Petersen, Donny Petersen, Tom Ivany, Sage Redelback, and Ross Redelback. Active Pallbearers will be David French, Harvey French, Gary Kurtz, Winston Cressman, Rick Redelback, and Ron Redelback. Rev. John Theiss officiating. Interment to follow at Brooks Cemetery. The family wishes to thank all those who cared for her during her last couple of months. In memory of Karen, if friends desire, memorial tributes may be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Canada Foundation, 30 Concourse Gate, Unit 27, Ottawa ON K2E 7V7. Funeral arrangements entrusted to SMITH FUNERAL HOME LTD. AND CREMATORIUM, BROOKS, ALBERTA. Condolences may be forwarded through www.sfh.ca Telephone 403-362-4636 or Toll Free (866) 362-4652.
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