Erika Scharsmid Föttinger

Erika was the beloved partner of the late Otto Bleuer and the widow of Tibor Halasz and Charles Fottinger. A talented draftswoman by profession, she lived a colourful and independent life marked by resilience, curiosity, and an enduring love of travel. She had a remarkable ability to find joy in life’s simple pleasures and was rarely seen without a warm smile.

As a child, Erika survived the hardships of the Holocaust, including time in the Budapest Ghetto. Those difficult early years shaped her quiet strength, yet they never diminished her kindness, generosity, or optimism. She faced life’s many challenges with courage and grace, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

We wish to express our deepest gratitude to Eleanor Gonzaga, Erika’s devoted caregiver and companion for the past seven years. Eleanor’s unwavering compassion, patience, and loving care brought comfort, dignity, and friendship to Erika each day. She enriched Erika’s life in countless ways, and her extraordinary dedication will never be forgotten.

Although Erika leaves behind no immediate family, she will be fondly remembered by Oliver and Carri Bleuer, who were a constant presence in her life for the past sixteen years. They were grateful to share in her journey, to celebrate her stories, and to witness the resilience, humour, and warmth that defined her remarkable life.

Erika will be remembered not for the hardships she endured, but for the grace with which she overcame them, her adventurous spirit, and the kindness she extended to others. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Burial will take place on Tuesday, July 21st at 10:30 a.m. at the Notre-Dame-des-Neiges Cemetery, Section Olier, No. 165, 4601 Chem. De la Côte-des-Neiges, Montréal.

May her memory be a blessing.