April 18, 1926 — Feb. 1, 2024
On the evening of Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024, Gladys Grabinsky passed away peacefully in the loving care of her oldest son Dale.
Gladys was born on April 18, 1926, in Fort Macleod, the daughter of Flossie and Gilbert Northey. She cherished her farm life and her six siblings, Kenneth, Clarence, Hertha, Tenny, Kay and Aldy. Gladys often spoke of how she missed the Sunday family meals, Saturday dances, star-filled night sky, the huge harvest moon, and their family horse Tinker. Gladys attended the McBride Lake school and made many life-long friends in Fort Macleod.
At the age of 17, Gladys and her sister Kay moved to Nelson, B.C. Gladys took a job helping the war effort to build parts for planes. She was a “Rosie the Riveter,” a title she denied by saying that she just held the doors while the stronger women riveted.
When the war ended, Gladys made her way to Calgary where she met Henry. They married in 1951 and together raised five children and created a welcoming and fun home for any niece, nephew or friend who needed a place to stay or a cup of tea. She believed in the power of kindness and inclusion, the importance of acceptance and that “everybody matters.” Her heart and door was always open and she loved a good joke. She was a dedicated wife, a compassionate mother and loving grandmother, a true friend, and will be deeply missed by many.
Gladys was predeceased by her husband Henry, her beloved son Douglas and close niece Louise Kesler.
Gladys will be lovingly remembered by her children, Dale (Jo-Anne), Tim (Marcia), Sherri (Courtney), and Ken (Vickie); as well as her eight grandchildren, Krystal (Todd), Jason (Heather), Kristopher, Shannon, Mathew, Richard, Samantha and Seth; and nine great grandchildren, Connor, Hannah, Isabella, Emily, Henry, Kyliee, Kayden, Kameron and Jordyn. Her life felt full and complete.
The family gratefully acknowledges the members of Bow Valley Lodge, her home in her golden years, and the loving care of the
Agape Hospice in her last months of need. A special thank you to Jennifer Pablito, who cared for Henry in his passing and helped Gladys in her recovery and became a dear friend.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to The Salvation Army Agapé Hospice in her honour.
Memorial service for Gladys and a celebration of life to be announced.
In the words of her dear friend and sister-in-law Rita, “May the sun shine warm upon your face and the wind be always at your back.”
Rest in peace, Mom.