Mary Annie Gilje

Marian passed away peacefully at St. Ann’s Nursing Home in the morning of Friday, January 9, 2015 at the age of 83. She was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Paul Kruesel and by her brother, Albert. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Olaf; by her daughters, Karen (Scott) Cranston, Beth Gilje, and Mary (Scott) Gilje-Allan; by her son, Brian (Cathy) Gilje; by her 5 grandchildren, Adam (Ruth), Eric (Desire), Emily (Ryan), Anja and Dylan and by her 7 grandchildren, Chloe, Caelan, Maximus, Zachary, Kaleb, Sawyer and Astrid.

Marian was born Mary Kruesel on September 4, 1931 in Kerrobert, Sask. She attended school at Millerdale- Astrum and at the Convent in Rosetown and graduated in 1951 from Saskatoon Teacher’s College. While practice teaching in Vanscoy, Marian met Olaf Gilje and they were married in 1954, settling in Saskatoon. After their 4 children were born, they returned to the Gilje Family farm near Vanscoy in 1971. They enjoyed many years on the farm, raising horses and dairy cows and many other farm animals and pets. Marian enjoyed many hobbies including gardening, painting, photography and reading and she was a wonderful cook. She even taught herself to use a computer, especially once her mobility was restricted. Marian volunteered for most of her life with the Catholic Church through the CWL, teaching catechism and as a lay presider. Marian and Olaf resided on the farm until 3 years ago when Marian’s poor health forced a move back to Saskatoon and eventually to her being admitted to St. Ann’s Nursing Home just over a year ago. Our family would like to give special thanks to the staff of St. Ann’s for their compassionate care of Marian. Prayers will be said Tuesday, January 14, 2015 at 7:00 pm and the Funeral Mass will be offered at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 15, 2015 both at St. Ann’s Chapel (2910 Louise Street).In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the Catholic Health Ministry of Saskatchewan, 1702-20th Street West, Saskatoon, S7M 0Z9