Obituary of Ruth Alfreda Juhasz

It is with uttermost sadness that we wish to announce the passing of Ruth Alfreda Juhasz, affectionately known as Oma.

Oma was born in Lana Germany on April 5, 1934, to parents, Frederick and Martha Lischewski. She was a sibling to seven sisters and two brothers. Over the years, we listened to many stories of the happy times she had growing up with her siblings, but also stories of hardships and difficulties. These experiences made Oma really understand that family and relationships, not possessions, were the most important.

Oma's voyage to Canada began on November 27, 1957, when she boarded the M.S. Seven Seas for a journey from Bremerhaven to Quebec. She then made her way to the Kootenays to join her sister and brother-in-law Waltrut & Bruno Meyer. They helped her adapt to her new life in Canada. She was employed at a local restaurant and worked in the back, but was encouraged to start waitressing if she wanted to learn English, so she did. It was there that she met John Juhasz and they were married on August 19, 1961. Together they raised five active boys. It was a very busy household, but somehow Oma managed to keep those boys in line (sometimes with an ear-splitting order! or maybe a wooden spoon!) Through the years Oma enjoyed being in the kitchen. Family and friends were always welcome, and she could easily put together enough food to feed a small army which is how it felt when the boys showed up with their buddies. She was very well known for her “famous” potato salad, apple pies, and tortes. The family looked forward to her sizeable assortment of Christmas cookies every year. If you were lucky enough, you made the Christmas cookie list as well!

Oma's true joy began when the grandchildren started to arrive. She had wonderful relationships with them, and they always felt extra special in her presence.

In her later years, Oma enjoyed going to church, visiting with friends, coloring, many Yahtzee games with her sister Waltrut and anyone else who wanted to play.

Oma is survived by her loving sons Dave (Karen), Rob (Debbie), and Kevin (Sandra). Her 9 grandchildren are Jacee (Kelsey), Colton (Gabrielle), Riley, Aaron (Mia), Kaylyn (Alx), Sawyer, Curtis (Ella), Kyler (Esther), and Ashley (Austin). One great granddaughter Rowan, and by her sister Kathy Rossi and brother Meinhard Lischewski. She is also survived by her many nieces, nephews, and their families who all held a special place in her heart.

Oma was predeceased by her husband, John Juhasz, sons Randy and Dennis, her parents, and her seven siblings.

Oma was as sharp as a whip, full of smiles, quick-witted, and full of spunk. She told it like it was and had the biggest heart for everyone. RIP Oma, you will be terribly missed, and we will remember you in our hearts forever.

Oh what a journey you’ve had…

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday April 5th, 2024 from 1 to 3 pm at the Fraternal Order Of Eagles Hall in Cranbrook, British Columbia.