Herta lived a vibrant life full of curiosity and smiles. She died peacefully, at 89, with family by her side on May 5, 2023, in Edmonton.
The youngest of eight, she was born on the family farm in Kleefeld, Manitoba, to Peter Karl Schwarz and Margaret (Baumgart) Schwarz.
Predeceased by her siblings, Suzanna, Hugo, Wanda, Peter, Albert, Art, Hilda; and parents.
She leaves behind the love of her life, Peter; her daughters, Karen and Lori (Don); two granddaughters, Nicole (Jared) and Sarah; great-granddaughter, Audrey; and another great-grandchild coming soon. Also leaves behind in-laws, Bob Matsuo, Hilda Reimer-Schwarz, Marieanne Schwarz, Cathy Kirkland; plus numerous nieces and nephews and their children.
She was an active youngster and gifted student. She skipped Grade 3 and, after teacher training, went on to teach at Barkfield, Manitoba, for a year. Herta first met Dad in high school, and they reconnected again when they were both living in Winnipeg training for their respective careers. Her choice of career, despite training initially as a teacher, was nursing as she was driven by a calling to care for, and about, others. She graduated from the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. And, in spite of living in several provinces and Germany, through Dad's air force postings, she never left nursing. Once a nurse, always a nurse, especially home care nursing. Their final posting was Edmonton, with her longest time in one house - 45 years.
Herta and Pete enjoyed a great life together. They traveled the world, collected antiques, shared wonderful experiences, and gave their family so much to be thankful for. She will be lovingly remembered for her inner strength, resolve, and never-ending support for all whom she knew. She actively pursued a career she loved, opened her heart to everyone she met, took joy in nature, her flowers, reading, collecting art, antiques, and interesting rocks and minerals (oh, how she loved her rocks!), walking, or exploring new places, and things with Dad. One of the greatest joys of her life were her two granddaughters and great granddaughter and she was happy to hear that she would soon have another great grandchild. Thank you to the wonderful staff on 4P at CapitalCare Lynnwood for their love and care in Herta's final years.
Her loss leaves us saddened but we will remember her warmth, genuine love for others, optimism, joy for life and compassion. We are honoured to be part of her legacy and will treasure the many memories we have of her.
A Memorial Service for Herta will be held on Wednesday, July 19 at 2 p.m. at St. Andrews United Church, located at 9915 148 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, with Reception to follow. If you are unable to attend, livestreaming will be available. Please email: HertaEnnsService@gmail.com to receive a link to the private livestream service.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your preferred charity.