Obituary of Zeltite Ukass

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Zeltite Ukass (Robeznieks) at the age of 97 on September 9, 2023 in Invermere, BC.

Zel was born in Nereta, Latvia, December 7, 1925. In 1944, her family was forced to flee the long-time family farm due to Russian occupation. With her two young children, Arija and Imants, she fled to Germany to reside at an internment camp. In 1951, she moved to Canada residing in Hamilton, Gleichan, Calgary, and finally settling in Invermere, where she married Ojars Ukass, a local lumberman also from Latvia. They had two sons, Gunars and Arturs, and operated a family logging and sawmill operation for over 40 years.

Zel was a strong matriarch, bookkeeper, homemaker, and prolific gardener who valued family above all else. She enjoyed the sweet things in life such as a KitKat bar, Chi Chi’s, and a sweet glass of wine. She was also an avid rock collector who enjoyed spending time out in nature, especially the mountains, and valued the freedom afforded to her in Canada.

She is survived by her two sons, Gunars (Paige), and Arturs, along with grandchildren, Amanda, Teresa, Jordan, Taryn, Madison, and Hudson, as well as 6 great grandchildren and niece.

Zel was predeceased by her parents, Marta and Janis, husbands Villis and Ojars, children Arija and Imants, and her niece Mara.

There will be a graveside service held in Calgary where her parents were laid to rest in a family plot, attended by family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Invermere Hospital Auxiliary.

A special thank you to Ivy House staff for all the attention and care given to Mum.