Obituary of Eva CROSS

Evas life started May 30, 1926 in French River, Ontario, where she was born to John and Isabel Catcher. From a large family, Eva was truly a child of the Great Depression where material goods were few and life was challenging. She left home at a very young age and moved to the big city of Toronto where she stayed with her older sister Pat the beginning of a close sibling relationship that lasted until her death. Her independence and bravery were evident when in 1949 she embarked on her big adventure out west as far as she could get with the money she had Regina. After a short spell working in a childrens home in Regina she met Verne Kenny Cross, whom she married on October 28 1950. That launched the period which she always called the happiest days of her life. Eva and Ken farmed just north of Kincaid, Saskatchewan and raised their children there. Both were very active in the community service clubs, helping neighbours, raising animals, farming, gardening and looking after their children. Eva and Ken retired to Regina where Eva again got involved in Newcomers Club, bridge clubs and other activities. Their marriage ended in 1985 and Eva continued to pursue her activities and make new friends. She experienced the trip of her dreams in 1993 and visited Africa; which was a huge highlight in her life. In the mid 90s Eva moved to Calgary to be near her children. Again she struck out on her own and made tons of new friends at The Sierras. She was fondly thought of as Julie the Cruise Director because of her organizational and social skills. Eva started the bridge club, founded the gardening club and was a fixture in the coffee room. She was much loved in that community. Even as her health declined, her good humor never deserted her. Eva will be deeply and truly missed by her children, Dean Cross (Jane Ecclestone) and Glenna Cross (Robert Verdier) of Calgary. She was an amazing mother and a great friend to us. She is also survived by her eldest daughter Lorna (Raymond) Selenski; grandchildren including: Jordan (El) Cross, Keely Cross, Jason Selenski and Sherry Selenski. Remaining to mourn her passing are siblings Pat James (also her best friend), John Catcher and Chris Catcher. Eva was predeceased by her brothers: Tom, Brian and David. Thanks to the kind folks at Hillcrest Extendicare for their compassion in caring for Mom over the last two years; and, a very special thanks to Donna and Chen who were Moms special people there. Funeral Services were held at Valleyview Presbyterian Church (7655 - 26th Avenue S.W.) on Thursday, December 9, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Alberta Diabetes Foundation, www.afdr.ab.ca or 522, 1919B 4 Street SW, Calgary, AB, T2S 1W4 or Calgary Reads, www.calgaryreads.com, 4105 26 Ave. SE, Calgary, AB, T2B 1G6.