Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children: Linda, Diane, and Don Malesza; her two grandsons, Garrett (Katie) Bastian, and Ward (Kim) Bastian; and great-granddaughter, Alexia Bastian.

Mary was born October 8, 1927 in Částkov, Czechoslovakia. At the age of 10 years, with the Germans already present in her village prior to World War II, she immigrated to Canada (southern Alberta) in April 1938. Thus began her young life, in a new world, exposed to many hardships and limitations. Out of necessity, and in part, defiance, she developed a tenacity that would serve her well in challenging times throughout her life.

With plans of becoming a nurse, she began attending night school to improve her English. There she met the love of her life, Walter. They married November 28, 1950 and together committed to walk-the-road-of-life, building their home and raising a family. She flourished in her role as wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, leaving many cherished memories and life lessons.

She was a woman of many natural talents… nanny, nurse, seamstress, cook, baker, gardener and teacher of “common sense”. She generously shared these talents in the many ways she was always helping others… whether it was stepping up to take care of other people’s children in their time of need; tending our wounds, illnesses and fears; sewing our clothes, and costumes for events and school plays; cooking memorable meals; baking fabulous pies, cookies and cakes; growing a bountiful garden and beautiful flowers. She approached tasks in a practical, “common sense” way.

Being in nature was her spiritual place. She took solace in working the soil and great satisfaction in preparing it for planting, anticipating the fruits of her labour. After dad’s passing (June 2007), she loved to reminisce while working in the yard, of the teamwork they shared and the life they had built together.

She lived a simple life, fulfilled in simple joys. Her character was rooted in strong values with great empathy for others, especially children and stray animals. She showed by example, that being true to yourself, working hard, and persevering, things got done and obstacles could be overcome.

She was… Frugal yet Generous… Small but Mighty… Tough Terrific!

With love and gratitude for being “ours”,

Rest in Peace Mom. Your life’s work is done. Dad is waiting to dance with you once again.

A Funeral Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2825 – 32 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. with Deacon Jim Manzara officiating.

Following the Funeral Service, Mary will be laid to rest in Mountain View Cemetery.