Erna Greenly

Erna Greenly peacefully passed away at Vista Village in Pincher Creek, AB, on Monday, Nov. 6, 2023. 

We, her family, are thankful for a life well lived. She is now without pain and we all have so many wonderful memories of her.  Erna Greenly was a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend.  

She is survived by her children: Linda (Chris), Kerry (Kathy), Brenda (KC) and Mark. She will be missed forever by her sisters Adina (Al) and Betty, her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren, as well as by her nieces, nephews, and friends.  Erna was predeceased by her husband Joe, her daughter Cathy and brothers Erhard and Arthur.  

She cared for everyone without exception: all ages, all social standings, and accepted everyone regardless of gender, race, political beliefs, religion.  It didn’t matter.  That was Erna.

Erna was born in Edmonton in 1930, to Julius and Emilie Hahn. Her life included many personal and medical challenges but she always carried on as the driving force and survivor she was. Although life was not always a walk in the park for her, Erna was always there when needed — an avid participant and volunteer on so many fronts in the community. Some of her roles included town councilor in Coronation, AB, nurses’ aide in Edmonton, AB, secretary for Matthew Halton High School, secretary for the Pincher Creek United Church, respiratory clinic assistant at the Pincher Creek hospital, customer service representative at Cornyn’s and the Alberta Liquor Store and Cub Scout leader. Erna was a longtime, dedicated member of the Legion Ladies Auxiliary and United Church Women, and taught English as a Second Language as well. She was an amazing musician — at church, Sunday school, Legion events, and saloons — an avid reader and word wizard in games like Scrabble and crossword puzzles. Erna was presented with an NDP Lifetime Award and received the Canada 150 Medal for volunteer and community work.  

Her kindness, humour, compassion, love of laundry, hugs, cooking, strong will, and undying devotion to her cherished children and grandchildren will be long remembered. Inimitable.  That was her.

We are happy she is at peace now and we will cherish and remember her life and goodness, always.  

A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at the Pincher Creek United Church.

Erna was laid to rest in Fairview Cemetery, Pincher Creek, AB.

In memory of Erna, donations may be made to the Windy Slopes Health Foundation                                                    

E-transfers may be sent to windyslopespc@gmail.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Erna Greenly, please visit our floral store.