Obituary

Aged 90, left us early in the morning on December 7, as snowflakes softly fell. She spent her last days surrounded by family in the compassionate care of Groves Memorial Hospital’s palliative staff. Inge was born January 8, 1935, in Schweinfurt Germany to Anna (Reichenberger) and Richard Mock, sharing her childhood with siblings Elsbeth, Hans, Marianne and Doris. As a child, Inge made the best of the adversity that wartime presents with her active imagination and resilience. At age eighteen, she made the voyage to Canada to join her eldest sister, Elsbeth. They arrived on July 20th, a date that would have significance again in her life. Inge and her sister made their way to Toronto to work various jobs over the years; one of them a diner, where Inge eagerly practiced her English. It was there she met the love of her life, Leslie, whose birthday was July 20th! They had a love to last an eternity and a marriage the envy of many. Their two children, Roy (Cindy) and Susan (Larry Lehnen); and grandchildren Emily (Rob Mutti) and Sam completed their family. When Inge’s friends escaped winter to warmer weather, she was making snow angels and hot chocolate with her children and later in life with her grandchildren. She was the quintessential homemaker and took pride in her ability to make any house a welcoming home. Her home was her castle which she transformed overnight for Christmas Eve celebrations. It was made magical, with decor and a feast with every detail complete. Her favourite German carols and music of the day rang out; the aroma of freshly baked German style shortbread filled the air and Christmas stencils appeared on the windows. When summer came, her beloved bicycle was readied for the season. With the wind in her hair, she went on errands, pleasure rides and enjoyed the company and companionship of her cycling group well into her 80s. Inge, a keen storyteller was equally interested in the joys and sorrows of her friends and family. Always seeking harmony for all with her wit and wisdom. She danced like no one was watching. With her spark for life, she made friends easily and put great effort to stay connected. She will be greatly missed and with time, only good memories will remain. Inge was an extraordinary woman who led an extraordinary life. Her capacity for gratitude in the face of adversity will forever be a reminder to us all to live in the moment, find the good in the bad, and never pass up an opportunity to celebrate. If desired, donations may be made to Groves Memorial Hospital or the future Aboyne Rural Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home (280 St. David. St. S., Fergus, ON, 519-843-3100). Visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com for Inge’s online memorial.