Obituary of Vivian Mae ECKERT

It is with great sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt on April 17th, 2016 at the age of 88 years. Vivian is survived by her loving daughter Sheryl, son-in-law Patrick Doyle, and granddaughter Shae Doyle, all of Calgary; her dear sister Irene McIntyre of Ontario; sisters-in-law Muriel Sharpe of Regina and Peggy Sharpe of Toronto; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was pre-deceased by her loving husband Bill Eckert (February 6th, 2014); older brothers Arthur Sharpe of Calgary; Raymond Sharpe of Regina; Clarence Sharpe of Toronto; and younger brother Gerald Sharpe of Vancouver, who also passed away the same week (April 12th, 2016). Vivian was born in Lampman, Saskatchewan to Ella Mae Hammond and James Walker Sharpe. She was the first-born girl and fourth of six children. Vivian maintained strong bonds with her four brothers and beloved sister. Through the years she often spoke about schooldays, friendships, and cherished memories of growing up in Manor, Saskatchewan. While working as a young girl at the bank in Oxbow, Saskatchewan, Vivian met Bill Eckert of Carlyle, Saskatchewan. Vivian noticed Bill on the dance floor and expressed – “Isn’t he a wonderful dancer.” For Bill it was love at first sight. Soon after Vivian and Bill became engaged and were married May 10th, 1950. They lived in Govan and then Unity, Saskatchewan where Bill worked as manager of The Beaver Lumber. Vivian and Bill then moved to and settled in Saskatoon with their daughter Sheryl in 1958, where Bill joined Sterling Distributors as manager of building supplies. Sheryl would attend the University of Saskatchewan and began her teaching career in Saskatoon. Vivian and Bill celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on May 10th, 2013 still residing in their much loved home on Sylvian Crescent. They enjoyed many happy times at their home welcoming family and friends, including cherished visits with Sheryl, Pat, Shae and beloved pets Cuddles, Snuggles, and Wally. Vivian was a beautiful and talented lady who loved to cook, bake, and garden. She sewed and knit/crocheted many beautiful items and clothing for herself and for her family. Over the years Vivian also enjoyed entertaining friends for dinner, having them over for coffee and dessert, singing, playing the piano, square dancing, playing bridge, and curling. She especially enjoyed her many trips to visit family in Vancouver, Toronto, Ottawa, Regina, and particularly to Calgary to spend time with her beloved granddaughter Shae. Vivian was a proud grandmother attending Shae’s many violin and dance recitals, school performances, birthday parties, and sharing in Christmas and seasonal celebrations. Vivian, as did Bill, also valued their many enduring friendships made on their life journey. Vivian was an Eastern Star and a longstanding, proud member of McClure United Church where she was so pleased to have Shae baptized. With the onset of declining health, Vivian moved to Calgary to be with her family this past fall and passed away unexpectedly but peacefully at Rocky View Hospital. We will miss taking caring of you Mom/Grandma as we lovingly remember the many years you cared for us. You will forever be held dear in our hearts. “Until we meet again may God hold you in the palm of his hands.” (Irish Blessing) A Memorial Service will be held for Vivian at McClure United Church in Saskatoon on Saturday, May 21st, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to attend. A reception will be held at the church following the service. Donations may be made to McClure United Church Memorial Fund in loving memory of Vivian.