Edelgard Anna (Piela) Clark
1927 – 2024

In Loving Memory 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Gardy, on Jan. 17, 2024.

Gardy is predeceased by her husband Bob and daughters Angela and Brenda. She is survived by her son Jimmy (Jolene), daughter Tracy (Dan), son-in-law Stewart, and her grandchildren Sean, Katelyn, Braeden and Hillary.

Gardy was born in Wanne-Eickel, Germany, and spent the past 44 years of her life living in Sooke, B.C. Gardy was a devoted wife, mother, aunt and Oma. Her favourite time of the year was Christmas, as it represented all that family meant to her. She loved the family dinners, the animated board games and being surrounded by the warmth, laughter and love of family and friends.

Her stories, told with a sharp mind and wit up until the last days of her life, will resonate with many that were fortunate enough to know her. First-hand testimony of her youth in WWII Germany, tales of her and Bob’s many military postings and subsequent “retirement” life in Sooke all told of a full and colourful life.

Gardy was the matriarch of the greater extended family, and her counsel and wisdom were hallmarks of her personality. Whatever challenges life dealt her she met head-on, made adjustments and moved forward. And that ethos has permeated the family way of viewing life.

An astonishing number of folks passed through her doors and, without exception, were warmly welcomed. Everyone who remembers Gardy is asked to celebrate her in their own way. Raising a glass and making a small toast in her memory would be quite appropriate and we know she would appreciate the moment. Instead of flowers or donations Gardy would hope that you do an unsolicited act of kindness in her name. Paying it forward as it were.

Gardy (Mom) will be greatly missed by family and friends as we bear witness to the last of her generation having departed. A celebration of Gardy’s life is planned for the spring.