Obituaries

Emma Louise Haack Eckhardt

October 01, 1923 - March 19, 2019

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Obituary For Emma Louise Haack Eckhardt

Emma Louise Eckhardt passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 19, 2019, in Grande Prairie, at the lovely old age of 95 years. She has joined the love of her life, John Eckhardt, to whom she was married for 55 years.

Emma was born on October 1, 1923 in Prairie Grove, MB where she grew up on a family farm with her sister Ruth Haack. She married John Eckhardt in 1947. Together, they continued to farm the land for many years. As with the farming life, there is a strong commitment to community and Emma was an integral part of hers. She belonged to the WA (United Church Women’s Association) and loved to dance. While on the farm, Emma and John raised three children: Carol-Lee, Ron, and Adele. In 1975, Emma and John moved off the farm and into the town of Dugald. She moved into the house of her dreams. It was designed by her daughter, Carol-Lee, and built by her husband and family. As her children grew up and flew the nest to Alberta, she developed a career from what she did best: caring for people. Emma’s natural compassion for people lead her into a career in homecare. She went to Red River College to obtain her Homecare Aide certificate when she was well into her 60’s. She was a master caregiver and earned respect from even the most demanding patients. She retired at age 73.

With all their children in Alberta, Emma and John decided to move to Grande Prairie in 1995. They wanted to be close to their grandchildren. She was superb in making her kitchen the welcoming place of her home and was a wonderful cook, although she could rarely provide an exact soup recipe for us to follow. And, she had many because John had to have soup as a first course with every meal except breakfast.

Like all of her past successes, she was an amazing grandmother to Emma Jr., Riley, and Kaylee, and became an integral part of their lives in Grande Prairie. Her “grandmothering” reach extended to Conrad and Julia who lived in Calgary. In 2002, Emma found herself widowed and without John, her life’s partner. She continued to be a nucleus for her family and made other enduring friendships along the way. A special one was with the late Len Smith.

Emma devoted her life to having purpose. She could put a sparkle on anything, especially with her smile. People gravitated to her and felt a connection. She was easy to be with and had a kind-hearted soul. She was our Queen and she leaves all of us to mourn the loss while, at the same time, able to reflect and celebrate her amazing life.

Please join our dedication service and tea on Friday, March 22, 2019, at 2:00pm, at Oliver’s Funeral Home in Grande Prairie (10005 107 Ave.).

On Tuesday, October 1, 2019, Emma’s birthday, a service and interment ceremony will take place at Green Acres Cemetery, in Winnipeg, MB, time to be determined.

A very special thanks to the Mackenzie Place Staff, Palliative Care and Liz Melainey who provided Emma with exceptional care and companionship.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Red Cross Society (109, 10014 102 St., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 0R2) or to Heart and Stroke of Alberta (144, 5241 Calgary Trail NW, Edmonton, AB, T6H 5G8).

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Condolences

  • June 24, 2021

    It is deepest sympathies we send to you all our thoughts and prayers. Auntie Emma was an incredible friend to my parents, Nora and Bill HADALLER. Her gentle touch was felt to me as I grew up surrounded by her love and to my wife especially during our wedding. She was so excited for us and we loved spending so much time with us. Her home was so welcoming and we have comfort knowing Auntie Emma, Uncle John, Dad and Mom HADALLER are together again. Please know we are thinking of you all.

  • June 24, 2021

    My deepest sympathy to the family, your Mom was such a sweetheart. It will be a very happy reunion for your Dad.

  • June 24, 2021

    Ever so sorry to read about the loss of your Mom. She was such a kind and gently soul, and will be truly missed by all that new her. Again, our sympathies to all. Love Judy and Myron....

  • June 24, 2021

    We have many fond memories of Emma when they lived in Dugald. Our Mom, Margaret considered her to be a dear neighbor and cherished friend. Emma will be missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. Wishing you peace and comfort. Linda and Cathy Ferguson

  • June 24, 2021

    Carol Lee, Ron and Adele, Condolences to you on the loss of Emma. She was a great person, Arthur and I enjoyed many good times with your parents. She worked hard but enjoyed a good life. My kids always said Emma made the best popcorn balls that she gave out on Halloween. Thinking of you, Margaret Thomsen and family

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To view the livestream of Sandra Van Schaick (Saturday at 11:00 am) or Glenn Kochendorfer (Monday at 2:00 pm) visit https://www.facebook.com/olivers.funeral.home/

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