SCHROEDER - Louise Helen (Gilbert) born June 10, 1911 in Stettler, Alta. Passed away peacefully at the Bulkley Lodge October 21, 2006.
Louise was born and raised in Stettler until the age of 9 when she settled in Smithers with her family in 1919. Arriving by train they spent their first nights in the valley at the historic Bulkley Hotel, bringing with them one of the first Model T Fords in the valley.
The Gilbert farm was high in the hills above Driftwood Creek at the end of what is now known as Gilbert Road, of which the largest field can be seen clearly from Main Street looking east, majestically large, framed from behind the Babine Mountain Range.
She met her husband John playing softball in Driftwood. John and Louise were married in 1943. They moved to Prince Rupert for five years, where John worked for Atlin Fisheries. Their daughter Carol was born during this time. They returned to Smithers in 1950 where they worked with the family logging business, and later taking over the family farm.
Louise enjoyed music and could be found many a weekend playing the accordion with her local pal Ralph Dieter at the Glenwood Hall for one of the many dances and socials she attended there. She bowled for many years, loving the sport and social gatherings, filling her house with a host of trophies. She was a lifetime member of the Women’s Institute, living the motto of “home and country”. She lived her life with grace and kindness, infusing all with her gentle patience.
Louise is survived by her daughter Carol (Randy) Holland, granddaughter Lorretta (Michael) Mehr, great-granddaughters Madison, Jenna and Ashlyn; brother Ron (Florence) Gilbert, sister-in-law Gisela Gilbert, one niece and several nephews. She was predeceased by her loving husband John in 1995, sister Gladys, brother Dick and nephew Garnet.
Our sincere thanks to the workers at the Bulkley Lodge for all your kindness and care for our Louise during her stay with you. A celebration of life will be held at the Glenwood Hall Thurs., November 2 at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Bulkley Lodge, Box 3640, Smithers.