Obituary of Hildegard Lundstrom

(Nee Polivka)

Hilda was born in Dortmund, Germany; she was a true German loving soccer and a good beer! In 1957, at the age of 20, she made the brave move of emigrating to Canada with her sister Ilse and brother-in-law Arthur. The plan was to meet her brother Gunter and his wife Ilse where they were living at the Mineral King Mine near Invermere. After days on the ship, a train ride across Canada this big city girl was finally dropped off on the side of the Hwy with her suitcase. This was a major culture shock, but she loved it!  That was the start of it all! On a lucky blind date in 1962 she met Ray and 58 years later they were still teasing each other and enjoying every day together! Hilda left her oldest sister Elinore and her husband Wolfgang along with her Mom Elsa (Hans) back in “the old country” and always missed them, but said Canada was her home and she was so lucky to live here. Hilda also felt blessed with Rays’ family, his parents Nels and Lil and sister Doreen made her feel incredibly special. Hilda was open to try anything and fell in love with the outdoors, camping, trips on horseback into the mountains and fishing. She was a good bowler, archer and in later years golfer. Hilda and Ray lived in Kimberley for the early years of their marriage then moved to the country where their home was always a place for friends and family to gather. Hilda was an amazing cook and well known for her Rouladen and famous fish. She worked at home on their farm and worked outside of the home for several years while raising her family. The family home was always filled with lots of music, laughter, the Lundstroms’ jiving, whistling, and love, plus there was always a dog to greet you! A visit to Mexico years ago with good friends turned into the creation of the “Pumpkin House.” This became a magical spot that has been shared by so many friends and family. It was one of Hilda’s favourite places and there were many many happy times and memories made here, and again you would always be greeted by a dog & maybe a shot of Limon Vodka. The neighbour dogs always knew when Hilda arrived and couldn’t wait to hang out with her! An adopted Zac ended up coming home with her & Ray and became part of the family. Loving, funny, a little stubborn, a little shy, absolutely loyal, wonderful smile, so pretty, so strong - that was Hilda. Hilda was so happy to share all these years with her nieces, nephews, family and so many wonderful friends. She will be remembered and loved by all. We feel so lucky to have Oma in our hearts, we love you so much; Ray, Brian, Margo, Taylor, Davis, Rea, Lee, Teagan, Amberly, Jadine & Derek.

The family would like to share their heartfelt thanks with Shaun, the health and home care teams, and Hilda’s very special friends, you truly were amazing and kept her smiling , you will forever be appreciated.

We look forward to a get together hopefully this summer sharing memories of Hilda and enjoying friendship, stories and smiles.


Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Services.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com