Elisabeth had a full life, being blessed with her family, a wide circle of friends and much travel, music and socializing. Her positive approach to life and her faith led to her living two memorable years beyond her initial cancer prognosis. Always caring for others, she continued to ask about and show great kindness towards family and friends until the end. Liesl, as her friends knew her, was born in Brünn, Czechoslovakia to German-speaking parents. She spent a happy childhood along with her brother, Heinrich, and many friends, some of them lifelong. Entering a job at a bank after following high school, her world was turned upside down upon the outbreak of the Second World War - her brother died at the Battle of Stalingrad and she worked at a munitions factory for a time. She was still in Brünn when the Soviets invaded, forcing Elisabeth and her mother to flee to Vienna and her father lost to a concentration camp. Living in Karlsruhe, Germany after the war ended, she met and married her Russian husband, Antony (Tony) Schipizky, then gave birth to Renate (Allan). Tony soon afterwards immigrated to Canada, settling in Alberta. Following her husband to Calgary, she gave birth to Frederick (Ruth) and Margaret.  In order to bring her own mother, Maria, to Canada, Tony built his first a house. Thus began a successful construction career together, which Elisabeth successfully managed after Tony’s death in 1979.

The Schipizkys moved on to Vancouver, where Rosemarie (David) was born.  Maria died accidentally shortly thereafter.  In both Calgary and Vancouver, Elisabeth made many friends in the German community, including at Holy Family German Catholic Church.  She travelled the world with Tony.

After his death, Liesl never lost her sense of Wanderlust, travelling with family and friends to Europe, Asia and Hawaii and on countless cruises.  She loved and cared deeply for her children and nine grandchildren Robert, Michael (Natalia), Stephanie, Anton, Paul, Michelle, Anthony, Matthew and Christopher.  She loved to play Rummikub, socialize at the weekly Kaffeeklatsch, bake, take photos, enjoy symphony concerts, find a good bargain and, most importantly, have Sunday dinner with her family.  Special thanks to Christine and all of the wonderful doctors and nurses that cared for Elisabeth during the last few years. She is deeply missed.