Olga Knoepfli

July 17, 1921 – April 2015

Olga passed away peacefully at Leisure World Caregiving Center, Brantford, on April 4 , 2015 in her 94th year.

Olga was a loving, caring wife, a mother whom most children could only wish to have called “Mom”, and a good person and friend to all who knew her throughout her life. Olga was predeceased by her husband and best friend, Wilfred Knoepfli. She also survived the sudden and tragic death of her son, Russell James Gray as well as the death of her six siblings. Olga is survived by her son, Gerry Gray (Debra), her step-son, Peter Knoepfli (Heather), five granddaughters (Dr. Courtney Gray, Megan Gray, Kristin Knoepfli, Dr. Alexandra Knoepfli-Kleiboer, Heather-Anne Velaniskis) and five great grandchildren (Noah Lawson, Peter and Fiona Kleiboer, and Mackenzie and Vilkas Velaniskis). Olga leaves behind many nieces, nephews and cousins, including close friend and niece, Eleanor Dexter.

Olga and Wilf owned and operated two retail businesses in downtown Brantford – Fabric Fair and Olga’s Fashion Fabrics. In her later years, Olga enjoyed her weekly nature hikes along the Grand River Trails with her good friend and neighbour, Joan White, and a host of other retired area school teachers. Olga loved animals, especially her two St. Bernards (“Brandie” 1 and “Brandie” 2) and then, her pride and joy, “Mikey”, a happy go lucky little Shih Tzu.

To all family, friends and acquaintances, Olga will be deeply missed. However, she leaves our lives richer by having known her, her sense of humour and her kindness and empathy towards others.

A Memorial to Olga’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, April 11, 2015 at 2:00 pm at Thorpe Brothers Funeral Home and Chapel, 96 West Street, Brantford. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Brant County SPCA, 539 Mohawk Street, Brantford, or to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

On line condolences may be offered at www.thorpebrothersfh.com.