Vera Maria Baleja
December 15, 1937 - October 31, 2009
It is with great sadness that the family announces that Vera passed away at Boundary Trails Hospital in Winkler on October 31, 2009 after a valiant struggle with cancer. Vera leaves a legacy of love and memories that her family and friends will cherish in their hearts forever. We will miss her.
Vera was born in Czechoslovakia and came to Canada with her family as an infant. She is the third oldest of 11 children - she had 7 sisters and 3 brothers. Although the family had originally settled in Manitoba, they subsequently moved to Dundas, Ontario, where Vera spent her childhood. Vera returned to Manitoba in 1956 when she married Roy Baleja of Sperling. Vera enjoyed her life on the farm and will be fondly remembered in her community of Sperling for her generous contributions to Sperling Bingo. She was a bingo caller as well as provided the dainties for the canteen. Vera was a very accomplished baker - her cream puffs and butter tarts were family favourites. Vera also enjoyed her quilting and made numerous quilts for family members as well as baby quilts for family and friends. Vera had a very generous spirit and was always happiest when she could take care of others.
Vera is deeply missed by Roy, her husband of 53 years, her son David (Deborah and grandchildren Tamera, Chantelle & Brittany), daughter-in-law Maureen (grandchildren Ryan & Rachelle, Greg & Krista and great grandchildren Jadzia & Koben), her son James and daughter Teresa (Adrian and grandchildren David & Michael). Vera lost her son Ronald to cancer in December 2008.
We thank family and friends for their love, kindness, prayers and support during Vera's illness. Thank you to everyone in the BTCH Cancer Care Team and the Palliative Unit for the extraordinary effort and encouragement as they cared for Vera and our family during the last months of her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to BTHC Foundation - Community Cancer Care. P.O. Box 2000, Station Main, Winkler MB R6W 1H8.
Funeral service was held on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at the Carman United Church. Interment followed at the Sperling Cemetery.
