Renate Bridgette Duvall

The battle with Alzheimer’s is finally over for our loving Renate. Peacefully on October 4, 2023, with loved ones by her side, Renate slipped away to reunite with her parents Elli and Karl Semrok, her sisters Karen and Ute, and her former spouse and dear friend Donald. Loving mother to her son Steven, daughter-in-law Cindy and daughter Shannon. Proud Grandma to grandson Christopher (Miranda) and granddaughter Victoria (Becca). Beloved Nan to her granddaughter Elli. Survived by her loving sisters Judy, Richarda (Mo), Ingrid (Pius), and Rosemarie (Mel). Loving Auntie to many nieces and nephews.

Renate was born in West Germany and the family relocated to Canada in 1956 to join her tante Ida who had come years earlier. Her family finally settled in Hamilton where she raised her own children. As a single mother she worked hard to provide everything her children not only needed but wanted, instilling great virtues by leading by example. She taught them to work hard- nothing comes for free, family first- they will be the most important people in your life and if you can help- you must help. Renate enjoyed spending most of her time with family, having poker weekends, family picnics, Sunday “tea”, shopping and “shlumping” around at flea markets and auctions. She enjoyed Bingo with her sister, little adventures with her niece to Carlukes and Picard’s. She loved to take long drives in the country listening to her 50s and 60s music blaring on the radio and she loved to dance.

She spent many hours knitting away making outfits and blankets for her future grandchildren. When she finally became a grandma the world and life's meaning changed for her. Grandma devoted her life to doting on them. She has spent many hours attending school events, drawing and “craps”, bathtime, spa days and major gossip sessions. Grandma always made sure they had everything they needed and wanted. She would travel miles to find toys, never resting until whatever wanted was found. She travelled through storms to play tooth fairy or bring ice cream when they were sick. Grandma has always been protector, ally, advisor, counsellor, secret keeper, cheerleader, partner in crime, and adventure buddy. She has always taken great pride in their accomplishments and decisions.

Grandma was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and fought many years to keep her independence but eventually had to be moved into long-term care. She moved into Idlewyld Manor on the 1st day of Covid Lockdown and she thrived. As the days passed by and the struggle with Alzheimer’s worsened, staff grew to be family and they helped her fight through those tough days. There was never a moment that Grandma never felt loved and cared for, as she was always surrounded by the most caring and compassionate people. Although she challenged you every day to stay on top of your game you all have accepted each challenge with compassion and love. Our family would like to thank you all and extend our love for allowing her and helping her to live the remainder of her life with dignity and respect. Please know that each of you has touched her heart as much as she has touched yours. She will be greatly missed by us all, but will live on through the many memories and stories she created with us.

Her Celebration of Life will take place on October 22, 2023 from 12 - 3 pm at Idlewyld Manor, 449 Sanatorium Rd, Hamilton, ON.