Ilse "Elsie" Maria Arndt

She was the second oldest child, until her older brother, Erhard, suddenly passed away when she was 12 years old. In 1945, as the Russian army approached, the family fled to East Germany by horse and carriage. In July, 1951, the Rosenke family immigrated to Canada to start a safer, and yet unknown, new life. After marriage to Gerd in 1955, she and Gerd eventually moved to 61st Avenue in South Vancouver and raised their 4 children, remaining living on the same street until now.

Especially in earlier times, Ilse (Elsie) enjoyed raising her family and sharing fellowship with family and friends. She was excellent at creating so many beautiful things with her hands—crafting, sewing, cooking and baking.

Ilse (Elsie) beloved mother and “Oma” will be mainly remembered for her resilience, determination and perseverance through many life tragedies and health issues. She was a very grateful, generous person with an unbreakable faith in God. She lived simply and was dedicated to the well-being of others. She appreciated the beauty of flowers and nature.

Ilse (Elsie) is predeceased by Gerd, her husband of 62 years, her brothers-Erhard, Johann, Friedrich, Rudolf, sister Frieda and son-in-law, Bob. She leaves behind her children, Trudy, Chelsea, Anita (Derek) and Martin, grandchildren Joshua, Ingrid and Eoin, and siblings Gustav, Olga, Horst, Helga and Sigrid.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr. Sajan and Dr. Ward, and the Classic Care care aides for their unconditional caring and support over the last 5 years in particular.

A funeral service followed by internment and reception will be held on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, 10 a.m., at Oceanview Funeral Home, 4000 Imperial Street, Burnaby.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made online to Chilliwack Church of God: E-transfer to [email protected] or the Greater Vancouver Food Bank https://foodbank.bc.ca