The family of Bessie P. Tratch are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, great aunt and great great aunt.
Bessie leaves behind her daughter Laverne Kelly (Michael RIP), son Michael S. Tratch (Louisette Harvey), son Daniel Tratch (Lois), daughter Barbara Vogl (Glen), grandchildren: Karl Weeks (Christina Shin), Alexandre Tratch, Marc Andre Tratch, Thomas Vogl (Joanna Kolakowska), Anastasia Vogl, her great grandchild Quinton Vogl and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Michael A. Tratch (1969) and 10 siblings.
Bessie was born and grew up on a farm near Limerick, Saskatchewan. In 1940 she married our Dad in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. In 1941 Mom and Dad moved to Vancouver, B.C.
Mom was a social and respected individual. She participated in many functions in support of Corpus Christi Catholic Church, The Boys and Girls Club, Fraserview Football Association, Singles Club and the Catholic Baseball League. She enjoyed her time spent with the Killarney seniors. She loved golf, bowling, bingo, bridge, card and board games.
Mom loved knitting and sewing clothes for herself, both daughters and her granddaughter. She worked in the fabric and sewing departments at Woodward’s and then at Annie Jamieson Elementary School. She was greatly loved, and upon her retirement the students at the school made a book full of "thank you" and "love you" messages.
She often travelled to visit family. For many years she made an annual pilgrimage to Gold River to visit Laverne and family and to Quebec to visit Mike and family. She also loved to spend time at her lot in Peaceful Valley, Washington State where she would socialize with family and friends.
Mom had many trials and tribulations in her life, but strove not to let them get her down. She was a loving, caring person and loved to give and get hugs. All who knew her are greatly missing her presence.
In later years Mom enjoyed her life at Shannon Oaks. The family would like to thank the staff at Shannon Oaks Independent Living for their care and attention to her. The last leg of her life journey was spent at Columbus Residence where she received caring attention and support during the last difficult months.
Due to the present pandemic a Funeral and reception will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice.