HAKENBERG, Erika Elisabeth (nee Romanowski)
July 8, 1927 – March 5, 2017
Passed peacefully and with the exemplary dignity that punctuated her life. Predeceased by her husband Eduard. Loved and loving mother and friend to Ralf (Joanna) and Karin Primorac (Michael). Proud grandmother to Laura Hitchon (Brydon), and Edward. Would have so spoiled and doted on great granddaughter Lennon Ophelia. Having left war-ravaged Germany in the 1950’s to carve out a new, ultimately highly successful life in her adopted country of Canada, mom always shunned the spotlight, preferring to let others receive the accolades. But her talents were formidable and she graciously shared them in unassuming fashion. She was an expert in all things needlepoint and family members were constant, grateful recipients of her handiwork. Her passion for planting and gardening beautified both the residence at her home, and in particular the extensive grounds of the Harris lake cottage. She was always the perfect hostess, constantly providing for the comfort and contentment of others in two residences that were notoriously party-friendly. Her mind was always razor sharp, and even in her later years, when dementia had made contact, her penchant for figures and her impish wit periodically peaked out, not only to our surprised delight, but to her own obvious satisfaction. She would accentuate such lucid moments with a wry, all-knowing smile that melted the heart and called to mind friendlier seasons. The staff at Extendicare lauded her as one of their favourites: a fitting and deserving tribute to a selfless life well lived. Visitation, at the P.X. DERMODY FUNERAL HOME, 796 Upper Gage Ave. on Saturday, March 11 from 10 a.m., until the time of the Funeral Service at 11 a.m. Memorial donations to The Alzheimer Society of Hamilton-Halton would be appreciated by the family. www.dermodys.com.

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