Obituary of Kata Radelja

Kata Radelja September 27, 1922 (Radelja, Yugoslavia) February 14, 2020 (Kimberley, B.C.) It is with great sadness that the family of Kata Radelja announce her passing on February 14, 2020, in her own home of 50 years in Kimberley at the age of 97 years young. Kata was born in Radelja, Yugoslavia to Stephan and Bara Radelja on September 27, 1922. Kata was predeceased by numerous brothers, sisters and relatives, who stayed in the former Yugoslavia, her nephew Frank (Helen) Radelja of Nanaimo, B.C., her stepson Nick (Millie) Radell of Calgary, Alberta, and her husband of 31 years, Frank Radelja, who brought Kata to Canada in 1955 to have a better life. Kata will always be remembered for her big heart, wide smile, her laugh and her acceptance of anyone she met, and her fondness for her ‘four legged kids’, Casper, Rosie and Muffie. Mom always took solace in hiking the countryside, picking huckleberries, looking for ‘shaggy mane’ mushrooms (her favourites), and dandelion leaves for a salad. She will also be remembered for her positive attitude and strong faith. Kata was baptized as a Jehovah’s Witness in July, 1994 and looked forward to God’s promise of life on a paradise earth (Revelations 21:3,4). Kata is survived by her son George, Bev Middlebrook of Kimberley, one granddaughter Ashtyn (Kiel Aitken) and one great grandson Bridger William Aitken, all from Airdrie, Alberta, and also one step-son Frank (Daphne) Radelja from Westbank, B.C., as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also left to mourn Kata are many friends and congregation members who loved her dearly. Kata’s family would like to thank Dr. Du Preez for her kindness and caring for Kata over the years and all the great ladies from Home Support for their help and support. A memorial service will be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 665, 304 St. Kimberley, B.C. on Sunday, February 23 at 2 p.m. with tea and coffee to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Watchtower and Bible Tract Society of Jehovah’s Witnesses at jw.org or the SPCA.