Mrs. Lillian Rodtke

LILLIAN RODTKE Lillian Viola Rodtke, age 85 years, passed away peacefully in St. Joseph's Hospice Unit on Saturday, February 25, 2017, with her family by her side. Lil was born on May 16th, 1931 in Fort William, Ontario, the only child of Swedish immigrants John and Helga Taft. She was raised in the village of Wabigoon where her parents were dairy farmers. Lil attended school in a one room school house until finishing grade eight. She completed her secondary education at Dryden High School. Upon graduation, Lil fulfilled her dream of becoming a teacher after spending a year in teacher training in North Bay Normal School. She returned to Wabigoon to begin teaching. It was here she met the love of her life, Trevor, who was a teacher at the same school. They were married in 1953 and their careers took them to Dryden, Timmins, Pembroke, and finally in 1970 to Thunder Bay, at which time Lil retired from teaching. Upon retirement, Lil became active with several volunteer organizations. She delivered Meals On Wheels for over thirty years, and spent many years volunteering for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the symphony and the music festival, as well as canvassing for various charities. Her numerous interests included reading, camping, walking, travel, and various word puzzles. She was an avid bridge player for many years. A great supporter of arts, Lil regularly attended the symphony and Magnus Theatre. Her faith was important to her, and she taught Sunday School for several years. Lil was very proud of her Swedish Heritage and always looked for opportunities to share her love of the Swedish culture and traditions with her family. The consummate hostess, Lil loved to cook and entertain, and friends and family were welcomed at her home on many occasions. Her optimism, sense of humour and genuine interest in other people endeared her to many. She took a great deal of pride in her family and time spent with them was dearly treasured. While her independence meant a lot to her, she was always truly appreciative of any kindness and aid given. Lil is survived by her daughter Michelle Sokoloski (Bryan), grandson Jordan (Devon), granddaughter Kelly and great-grandson Theo, as well as by 2 sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and a nephew. She was predeceased by her parents John and Helga, her husband Trevor, sister-in-law Bernice, and 2 brothers-in-law, Everett and Leverne. Funeral service for the late Mrs. Lillian Rodtke will be held on Monday, March 6, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Thomas Anglican Church, 1400 Edward St. South. Cremation has taken place and interment will be held at a later date in Sunset Memorial Gardens. If friends so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation – Northern Cardiac Fund, the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra or to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore St. at James.