Maria Magdalene Charlier

Our dear mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and friend of many, took her last breath at the Foothills Hospital on Wednesday evening, January 15, 2014. Maria is fondly remembered by her children, Marlene (Loyd) and Paul (Melissa), and grandchildren Jason, Trevor and Tiffany (Carl), as well as family and friends in Canada, Germany and Holland.

Maria was faced with many challenges these past four months. Her husband of 65 years passed away in September of last year after a month long struggle after complications from surgery. At the end of October Maria was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. On December 10th she was admitted to the Foothills Hospital to undergo surgery. Although she was strong and brave, and fought hard, the complications after that surgery were too much for her. She passed away very peacefully and comfortably, surrounded by family.

We have a lifetime of wonderful memories to treasure. She was a warm, compassionate, beautiful human being and people were drawn to her immediately. Maria loved gardening, fishing, and camping. She made every holiday event special. In 2013 Maria and Joe celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary and attended their granddaughter's wedding in August. These fond memories will remain with us forever.

We deeply appreciate the kind expressions of sympathy and support in our time of great sadness. We know our pain will decrease and what will remain will be all the fond memories. We especially thank the doctors, nurses and staff at the Foothills Hospital, Unit 71, Unit 36 and CCU, for the exceptional compassion and care.

At Maria's request, there will be no formal funeral service. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in Maria’s honor to the Foothills Hospital Foundation c/o CALGARY HEALTH TRUST, 800, 11012 Macleod Trail SE Calgary, AB T2J 6A5 (403-943-0615) or by visiting https://secure.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/sslpage.aspx?pid=224.