Saturday, February 5, 2022 at 12:00 a.m.
Boschman, Lydia "Grace"
LYDIA "GRACE" BOSCHMAN, beloved wife of Henry Boschman, of Coaldale, passed away peacefully at home, on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at the age of 65 years.
LYDIA "GRACE" BOSCHMAN, beloved wife of Henry Boschman, of Coaldale, passed away peacefully at home, on Saturday, January 29, 2022, at the age of 65 years.
At home, surrounded by family, Lydia "Grace" Boschman went to be with her Lord on January 29, 2022 after a brief illness.
Grace was born on March 27, 1956 in Coaldale, Alberta. At a young age her family moved to Calgary, where her dad studied at the university and pastored the Highland MB Church. When she was 6, her dad became ill and could no longer continue his ministry. They then moved to Vauxhall for a time, and then back to Coaldale. Grace graduated from Kate Andrews High School in 1974, after which she spent some time travelling in Germany with her good friend Esther. Upon returning to Canada, her courtship with Henry became more serious, and on June 28, 1975 they were married. For the next 5 years Grace worked for Canada Manpower until she had children. To be closer to the kids, she then took a part time job at the kindergarten as a Teacher's Assistant, and always looked back on this as her "fun job". In 1990 the family moved out to the acreage, where she resided until her passing. She loved life there and never wanted to move again. She enjoyed the rural setting, looking over the fields, watching the animals, the sunsets, and the ever-changing sky. In 1991, with the kids growing up, she kept up her mother's tradition, and went to work at the Coaldale Hospital. While working there, she went to Lethbridge College and earned her Journeyman Cook Certificate. She enjoyed her work and interacting with the patients and staff, always paying close attention to detail. Her career at the hospital lasted for 30 years until her retirement in the spring of 2021. At work she made many lifelong friends, and the only friend she didn't have was someone she hadn't met yet.
Over the years her children were her main focus. She would do anything for them, as well as for all their cousins and friends. Grace inherited the trait from her mother that it was her job to feed the world. This was until twelve years ago when her one and only favourite grandson was born, and life was changed forever. Conner immediately became very special to the whole family and many plans were built around him. She was an incredible people person (sometimes to a fault), and did her best to remember everyone's name in town, where they worked, who they were related to, all their kids' names, and even their birthdays. She loved being with people and could chat up anyone.
Grace was very involved with family. She loved all the annual camping trips, motorcycle trips with friends, special events and was always planning ahead for the next one. After her retirement last spring, Grace was determined to continue leading an active life. She hiked and biked for miles every day. She also started playing pickleball, and always tried to be the best she could possibly be.
Starting in the middle of December 2021, Grace began to lose interest in those activities. The last hike she made was around Henderson Lake on December 23rd, at which time it became clear something was not right. On December 26th she was admitted to the Foothills Neurological Centre, where it was eventually concluded that she had a neurodegenerative disease, for which there is no known cure. She then returned home and was able to share her last days in the company of family and friends, who will be forever grateful for that time spent together.
Grace is survived by Henry (husband of 46 years), her three children, Kristie (Cody), Cory (Chelan), Jordan (Tianna) and their son Conner. Grace is also survived by her mother Martha (John Funk, deceased), sister Phyllis (Charles Pankratz), their children Stephanie (Aman), and Karm, sister Dorothy (George Matthies), and their children Cody (Megan), and Jessica (Conrad). There are also numerous in-laws, uncles, aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces, all greatly treasured, but too numerous to name.
She is now rejoicing in heaven with her dad, Abram Regier, who died when she was 11, as well as many other family members and friends that have passed before.
Grace's faith in God was always rock solid and never wavered, even to the end. She often said, "God knows the end from the beginning, and He makes NO mistakes."
Thank you for all the love and support.
A private Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, February 5th, 2022, at 1:00 PM. The Service will be livestreamed and available to view via Grace's obituary on the Cornerstone website.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Grace's memory to the Canadian Food Grains Bank - 393 Portage Ave #400, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3B 3H6 or https://foodgrainsbank.ca/
Guestbook (43)
Share a memory or send a tribute in memory of Lydia.
Grace, you were such a light! You hosted my son on many occasions to play with Conner, you were a blessing. You are well loved and missed.
Henry and Family, We just want to express our sincere sympathy. Losing Grace was a big loss for your family. 46 years seemed to go by so quickly. You will have to hold all those great memories close. Grace was so full of life and she was the kind of person who wish you the best as you go forward, until you meet again. She will be one of the brightest stars in the sky.
Grace, Grace, wonderful Grace... so fitting in rememberance of Grace. Her very essence was filled with an overflowing joy, love and acceptance, always in front of her a exuberant willingness to help and encourage. I loved working with Grace at the Coaldale Health Center. I always knew when entering the kitchen, hearing a vivacious laughter and joyful tone...it was Grace. She was always genuinely interested to know how you and family were doing, words of care and encouragement. Even after my husband and I moved to BC last spring, we connected. She shared her recent retirement and her exciting plans for continued and new adventures with family and friends for summer...plus plus. Grace left a lasting impression on me and to all of you her beloved family, what a blessing to have had such a beautiful, loving and caring, fun filled, faithful and faith filled soul as a matriarch of your family. Grace will be sorely missed, but not forgotten. May you, her family, closest friends and her community be blessed and comforted by her wonderful and lasting memories and know that one day look to be reunited with her in the heavenly realm. Keep the faith... Jesus is coming soon! Oh what a day of rejoicing that will be!
My sincere condolences to you all. Grace was a wonderful lady ?
Henry and family, we are so sorry to hear of the passing of Grace. She was a beautiful lady, with so much warmth, joy and laughter. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Grace had a very special place in our family. From her role as a ring bearer in our wedding, to coming to stay with us when baby Jonny was born, to having a cousin (Heather) in her wedding, to countless talks, hugs and songs together, Grace embodied warmth, joy and love. Dear Henry, Martha, and family, our prayers and deepest condolences are with you in this time of grief. May God's love uphold you all! Love Aunt Lydia, Heather, Rosanne, Jonathan and our families
So sorry to hear about Grace. She was an angel and now she is with the angels. My condolences to Henry and the family. God be with all of you throughout the coming days.
Henry and family, so sad to hear of Grace's passing. My memory of Grace was her warm smile and always caring, gentle ways. Thoughts and prayers for you all.
So sorry to hear of your loss Henry. She was a wonderful woman.
Dear Henry & family. Our heartfelt sympathy as you mourn the passing of Grace. May fond memories comfort you until you meet again.
We have just joined in the celebration of Grace's life as we watched the service online. How uplifting and encouraging is the example she was in life. It will be in our minds inspiring us to carry on in her spirit, while we walk this earth. Our most tender thoughts and prayers reach out to all her beloved family.
Our hearts are with you Uncle Henry, Kristie, Cory and Jordan and your families. Auntie Grace is smiling more than ever before with her precious Lord. We will see her again soon one day! Praying for you all as we see the day approaching. May God comfort you with His amazing love and comfort
Henry and family, Martha, Phyllis and Dorothy, We pray that God and family and friends will comfort you as you remember Grace. Sincerely, Henry and Ellie Sudermann Vancouver,BC
Henry and family, My heart goes out to you all at the loss of dear, sweet Grace. I was privileged to get to know her through working at the Coaldale Health Centre and never have I ever met a kinder, sweeter more genuinely caring person than Grace, My prayers are with you all. So great to know we will see her again one day.
You will always be in my heart,. I always looked forward to working with you, having our coffee and talking visits. Fly like the angel you are.
Love and prayer for the family
May God hold you close and may you feel His love and His peace.
Grace was such a wonderful woman she was a great friend to so many and will be missed by all of us When my mom Joan Corey worked in the kitchen at the hospital when she was alive she talked fondly of Grace and how compassionate and kind she was - never mind what a wonderful cook she was and how loving to the residents - Henry and family you will be in our prayers throughout this journey
Words can't say what Grace meant to so many people. When working at coaldale health centre, staff, patients, and public loved her kindness. She was one true friend filled with kindness, love and her passion. We all will miss her. My prayers are with you Henry and your family. Shelley Dore
We are so very sorry for your loss, our prayers are with your family.
Henry and Family I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs and prayers to you and your family.
To The boschman family my condolences to all of you such a sweet loving and caring lady Sending prayers sending love you way Kristie.
Henry, you and Grace have been in our prayers every day for the past month. Grace was always one of my favourite aunts, being the warmest and most welcoming person I've ever known. She leaves a gaping hole in our hearts and our family. God's peace be with you.
Our hearts go out to you at this most difficult time. To our family Grace was always someone who cared, loved , laughed , was up for having fun, and especially loved to sing those "old" songs passed down to us through our moms. We have many great memories from when they stayed with us in Calgary (many years ago) and all the way to these last years connecting whenever we had a chance. Henry and family we pray that you will have all you need in the days ahead. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you remember and miss Grace and all the joy, strength and love she brought to living. In the words of another great song .. "When pain or sorrow is too much to bear When your hearts feel numb, unable to care Then hold on, hold on - we'll find a way to get through...We will hold on to you." Much love... Amy, Esther, Joy, Lydia,Dave, Frann, Chris and our families.
Jordan, Please accept my sincerest condolences to you and your family. My heart goes out to you. Stay strong and remember all the good times.
We were so sorry to hear of Grace's passing. We remember her as a caring, loving person and a friend to all. She had a way of making everyone feel special. Henry and family, you will be in our thoughts and prayers, and we ask for God's peace and comfort to you during this very difficult time.
Dearest Grace... its greg here... I'm sharing this from a project in British Columbia... its just not possible to be there in this moment...Im was hoping to share some thoughts... As with others, this whole thing has been tough to process... Grace, I am thankful for having met you... there was a connecting of the souls I guess (not sure how else to explain it), I really didn't know you other than you were Henrys' wife, and Jaynes cousin and dear friends with Allan and Esther... over time, a sincere appreciation developed during what little time we spent time together... You were the catalyst, one who carried the narrative... seemingly knowing every THING about every ONE within your reach, the Lord only knows how many... You came alongside, brought them in, cared for them...you are genuinely interested and make yourself available, you did what you could to help... I'm grateful for the example you have been to ALL of us...allowing the Spirits leading and becoming one of Gods angels here on earth... your courage, willingness, tenacity, your heart... all given in trust for the work God desires to complete in each of these peoples lives...in 'our' life... You were obviously and intentionally sent and equipped by God... the proof is in all these lives you have touched over the course of time, mine included... unselfish and giving, and humble, and generous...You are one of Gods greater gifts... a servant and true disciple, walking your faith understanding Gods purpose and expectation...Henry was SO blessed to have shared a life with you... Grace... you, I wont forget...I will remember you as I last saw you, at the center of the group, laughing and sharing... 'breaking bread'...we ate watermelon together...
We share in your deep loss and our tears are with you all in this heart-break. Grace was such a wonderful person with warmth, energy, joy, laughter, presence, faith, a big heart of love and service. She embraced life so fully and brought blessing wherever she went. It is quite impossible to take in that she has left so soon. Her name fit her so well - a woman of GRACE. Our prayers are with you.
Dear Henry and family, Yvonne and I were shocked to hear of Grace's illness and passing. So terribly quick for you and the family. Please accept our love and prayers. May God grant you the ability to grieve well your deep loss. Our hearts hurt for yours. We have fond memories of our time with you as neighbours. Borrowing ingredients for cooking and chasing the kids all over the street. And of course our common experiences of worship and faith together at the Coaldale MB Church together with the many laughs shared at potlucks, hayrides and social events. May God keep you close.
Dear Henry & Family, Elvina and I were saddened to hear of Grace's passing. It brought back memories of working with her at the Coaldale Health Centre. Grace's bubbly personality contributed greatly to making it a great working environment. She was a blessing to everyone she met. Her obituary is a beautiful tribute to a very gracious lady! We're praying for you and your family. God bless you all! Bob & Elvina
Dear Henry, Kristie, Cory, Jordan and family We were shocked and saddened by Graces' sudden passing. She will always be remembered as an energetic, caring and loving person. You are in our thoughts and prayers, may her memory be a comfort through these difficult times.
Grace's warm and caring spirit impacted everyone she met. We will miss her! May the warmth of God's love surround you and give you strength in these difficult days.
Paul and I were so saddened to hear of Grace's passing. Our prayers and condolences are with you, Grace's family. We pray you all, experience God's loving arms around you during this most difficult time. Remember, when you only see one set of footprints, it is then that Jesus is CARRYING you. Paul always enjoyed getting together with Grace (his cousin) during his younger years. Talks about the fun times they had as kids, at their place, or at Aunt Martha's. Never a dull moment when the Rempel clan got together. I, Yvonne, only met Grace in her later years, but so appreciated her friendly and outgoing personality. She was a lovely cousin, who's heart was to see family and friends come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Grace is now sitting at Jesus feet, enjoying the company of the one she cherished and loved.
Grace was a new friend to us through pickleball. She was immediately welcoming and gracious with this 'beginner', kind and encouraging. It sounds like that is who Grace was in every area of her life. I know Jim enjoyed playing with both of you, Henry. This is such a sudden and sad event but I'm sure there's rejoicing in heaven. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Henry and family, Grace's kindness and "grace" was always evident at work at Coaldale Health Centre. She was a blessing to all who had the privilege to know her. I will continue to pray for comfort and healing for all of you. Seems like God needed her a bit too soon, but His love and your faith will give you the peace you need to move forward. Cherish all your memories and know you will see her again in heaven!
It is with great sadness that we hear of Grace's passing. Our hearts and prayers are with you Henry and your family at this difficult time.
Grace was such an inspiration to many as everything she did, she did it with love and purpose. My heart goes out to all of her family and friends for the loss of her presence here. My hope is that all the great memories you have of her are of comfort to you now.
Henry and family I am so heart broken about this loss. Grace was a beautiful person. Always showing interest in everything and everyone. I am so glad her faith was so strong! She is in heaven now! Thinking of you all and keeping you all in my prayers.
Dear Henry, Kristie, Cory, Jordan and family, We are so very sorry to hear of Grace's passing. She was a beautiful person, with a smile for everyone. May good memories bring you peace. She will be missed.
Henry and family. We remember Grace with such fondness. We had many happy times with her growing up, and she was such a beautiful soul. Sending our love and prayers.
Henry and family Kristy, Cory, Jordan and families we are so sorry to hear about the passing of Grace she was a wonderful lady so happy we got to see her on our bike ride last summer she looked so great this is such a blow to your family..please know we are thinking about you all at this most difficult time may she rest in peace
Dear Henry and family, Oh, what a loss for you! Beautiful Grace! She was such a dear friend and cousin to me!! So glad she knew Jesus and we will meet again!! May God give you comfort and strength and a peace that passes all understanding during this very sad time . Much love and prayers
Henry and family, I am so sorry for the loss you have suffered. We have such a great hope that we will see her again in heaven. I know your hearts are heavy and just know that my thoughts are with you during this difficult time.