Obituary of Christina Mary Plonka

1943 - 2011

Christina Mary Plonka (nee Cummins) passed away peacefully in Cranbrook on January 14, 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer. She will be dearly missed by her husband, Joseph, children, Cathy (James) Herrick of Unity, SK, John (Penny) Plonka of Port Coquitlam, BC, and beloved grandchildren Andrew (fiancée, Mandy) and Daniel Herrick, and Gabrielle Plonka. Christina also leaves to mourn her siblings Frank (Jean) Cummins of Iroquois, ON, Linda (Earl) Sande of Surrey, BC, Laurine McFarland of Red Deer, AB, Percy (Wanda) Cummins of Sherwood Park, AB, sister-in law, Carolyn (Reg) Gallant of Blackfalds, AB and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Mary Ellen Cummins; brothers, Robin and Kerry; and brother-in-law Ray McFarland.

Christina was born in Banff, AB on March 29, 1943, the eldest of seven children. She graduated from high school in Vulcan, AB in 1961, attended Business College in Lethbridge, and later in her career earned her Local Government Administration Certificate from the University of Regina. She married Joseph in September of 1962, and together they embarked on a journey that included many years in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia. In addition to her commitment to caring for her family, Christina served for many years as a civic government administrator in Saskatchewan. Later, as the United Church secretary, she worked quietly to address the needs and concerns of others, all in an organized and efficient manner. Always quick to volunteer, many organizations including the Girl Guides of Canada, Sunday Schools, & the U.C.W., benefitted from her leadership and commitment. She also enjoyed the fellowship of her friends on the curling ice in the winter and on the golf course in the summer. Near and dear to her heart was her continued advocacy for the homeless.

A private family service officiated by the Reverend Frank Cummins will be held for Christina at McPherson's Funeral Home Chapel in Cranbrook.

The public is invited to celebrate the life of Christina Plonka on Friday, January 21, 2011 at the Day's Inn (600 Cranbrook Street), Bavarian Chalet Ballroom, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the East Kootenay Foundation For Health, 13 - 24th Avenue North, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 9Z9, or a charity of choice.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com