Obituaries

WUERCH, Olga (Olie)

September 13, 1915 – October 9, 2021

Our “Dancing Queen," doting and beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and aunt, passed away peacefully at Brandts Creek Mews on October 9, 2021, with her daughter Gerry, and granddaughter, Dawn, at her side. Predeceased by her husband, John (2000), mother and father, siblings Jean, Amil (infant), Victoria (Vicky), Walter, Carol, and son-in-law Walter, as well as many close family members and friends, there was sure to be a rousing reception for her in heaven.

Olga (Olie) was equal parts modern woman and domestic goddess. During WW2 while the men were called to serve overseas, Olga felt the call to serve as one of the first female streetcar drivers for Winnipeg Electric, driving from 1943-1950. She also loved to cook, bake, sew, needlepoint and shop. She excelled at all of it. Olga, known as "Gramma Rock" to her grandkids, was generous with her time, her knowledge, her love, as well as her possessions, often insisting visitors leave with some belonging of hers. In later years, Olga enjoyed singing with fellow residents at Sandalwood and Brandt Creek Mews. She even sang Elvis on her 106th birthday, just one month ago. While it seems impossible that she is no longer with us, we celebrate the fact that we had her in our lives for so long. She was truly miraculous. Thank you to staff on Peach Trail for all your care.

Olga is survived by her daughter Gerry Chambers, grandchildren Patrick (Stephanie), Dawn (Carl), Tim (Sarah), Kathleen (Drazen), great-grandchildren Amanda (Phil), Daniel, Ryan, Shawn, Garrett, Jesse, and Gauge, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Aboard the last streetcar to heaven, she's likely sitting beside the driver recanting the story about how she aced her defensive driving course. Safe trip Mom.

No service by request, cremation has taken place.

Condolence Messages

Oct 24, 2021
Gerry, my condolences. Ollie, your Mom, was one of the most lovable, fun, and enthusiastic people in my experience as 'Master Host' at Sandalwood. Its been said that enthusiasm will get you anywhere--it got Ollie to 106!! And the stories!!

I'm hoping that there is a streetcar, and a piano bar, up there for her.

What a lady!

Dennis Campbell
Oct 23, 2021
Gerry and family...my sincerely condolences! Olie was an incredible lady! Knowing her over the years she lived at Sandalwood, she shared many interesting stories.

She always looked forward to singing with the group on Fridays. Cherish your good memories of her! God bless!

Tina Peterson
Oct 20, 2021
An amazing, incredible, take no nonsense woman...i had the privilege of working with Olga in the community...oh the stories she would share..an earth angel who has now received her heavenly wings

Tracey Maxfield
Oct 20, 2021
Gerry and Family,

It was a pleasure getting to know Olie during her time at Brandt's Creek. She certainly was one spunky lady! She was so very kind to my mum during their time together on Peach Trail, something that meant so much to our family. Keep all your special memories of her close to your heart. Rest in peace, Olie, we will miss you!

Sincerely, Charles and Anne Colk
Oct 20, 2021
What a marvellous beautiful lady!! We are saddened by her passing but so thankful we got to know her at Sandalwood during my dad’s stay there! She loved to sing and that she did when my dad played all those old favourites on the piano every Friday after lunch! One if her favourites, was Elvis’ “Are you lonesome tonight”. Olie’s zest for life & her positive, upbeat attitude was a gift she shared with all of us! To all her family Cherish all those special moments you’ve shared over the years! All our love & prayers as you celebrate & reflect on a wonderful life! Bernie & Ev Monteleone
Oct 19, 2021
My deepest sympathies to the family I have known Olie from Sandalwood and spend many wonderful years singing in the choir talk about hairdressing. I hope she will rest in peace and God bless to you all

Maya

hairdresser @ Sandalwood
Oct 19, 2021
Our deepest sympathy to you Gerry. Sincerely Joe and Janet Roth .