Alvina Risling

Alvina was born on November 29, 1933, in Scott, Saskatchewan, to Lambert and Elizabeth Duchscher. She grew up on the farm with her sisters Doris Uhrich and Mary Keller. She attended school in Revenue, Saskatchewan, and later moved to Saskatoon to continue her education, work, and raise her family.

Alvina raised five children largely on her own, demonstrating remarkable strength and resilience. Her children are Lynne (Smith) Keith, Deb (McHenry), Glen (Linda) Risling, Perry Risling, and Dale Risling.

Alvina is survived by her children Lynne, Deb, and Dale; her 13 grandchildren: Chris Neufeld, Keenan and Logan Smith, Stacey and Scott McHenry, Yvonne, Ryan, Shaun and Jessie Risling, Michele, Lisa and Robbie Risling, and Kristina Risling, along with their spouses; her 16 great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was predeceased by her parents, her sisters Doris and Mary, and her beloved sons Glen and Perry. The loss of her sons was devastating; although she always put on a strong front for her family, she carried that grief in her heart until the end.

Alvina loved her family deeply and accepted everyone exactly as they were. She never judged and took a genuine interest in everyone’s lives. She never missed a birthday and made sure every family member received a card. She especially enjoyed her time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mom was a lifelong member of St. Philip Neri. A woman of strong Catholic faith, Alvina found comfort and strength in her prayers and her relationship with God throughout her life. Her faith guided her through many challenges and brought her peace.

Alvina worked hard throughout her career to support her family. She held various jobs and retired from the National Parole Board, where she maintained many lifelong friendships with former colleagues.

Later in life, Alvina met Jake Thiessen. Together they enjoyed traveling across Western Canada each summer with their trailer, often stopping in Calgary to visit family before heading to their favourite destination in Radium Hot Springs. They also loved attending polka festivals throughout the province, dancing and making many dear friends along the way.

She enjoyed watching her favourite sports teams — the Toronto Maple Leafs, Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Toronto Blue Jays. She also loved gardening, bowling and playing cards, particularly Bridge and Kaiser. If there was a game happening, Alvina was ready to join in.

In 2021, Alvina moved from the family home where she had lived for 50 years to Independent Living at St. Volodymyr in Saskatoon. She quickly adjusted, made new friends, reconnected with old ones, and actively participated in activities — especially cards, bingo, meals, and socializing.

Alvina lived a long, beautiful life and touched everyone she met. Her love, wisdom, strength, sense of humour, and deep faith will be remembered and missed by all who knew her. She will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at St. Philip Neri Parish (1902 Munroe Avenue, Saskatoon). Funeral arrangements in care of Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be livestreamed on June 6, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.

The following is the link to view the livestream: https://youtube.com/live/Kv_reuYc6e4?feature=share