Obituary of URSULA OLDENBURG-DELFING

URSULA OLDENBURG-DELFING (nee Schwahn) On June 19th, 2013, mom’s long battle with cancer ended. Although we will miss her terribly, we are grateful she can finally rest. Her journey ended as she had lived, surrounded by family and friends who loved her very much. She is survived by her devoted husband, Gunter, her children Cindy (Gregg) Fox, Connie (Bryan) Coutts, and Craig (Sandy) Oldenburg; also her step-daughters Christel (Tom) Maskiew and Rita (Sean) Delfing-Flynn. There was a special place in mom’s heart for her grandchildren Katherine (Stephane), Colin, Ryan, Drake, Tyler, Alex, Caitlyn and Matthew, who will all miss their Omi. Ursula’s life began in Bahn, Germany, where she lived with her family until her childhood was disrupted by the Second World War. Life could never be the same behind the Iron Curtain, so, at her parents’ insistence, Ursula started a new life for herself in London, England, where she became a nurse. In 1953, she seized the opportunity to work at the King George Hospital in Winnipeg during the polio epidemic. The hospital was demolished in 1999 to make way for the Riverview Health Centre, where mom would return 60 years later to spend her final days. Soon after arriving in Winnipeg, Ursula married and eventually adopted three children, who became her top priority. She raised her family first in Transcona, then in East St Paul, making many life-long friends along the way. 1979 signalled a fresh start for Ursula. With the support of her friends, she made a new home for her children and went into business as a restaurateur. She followed her love of music and joined the German Choir, where she met the love of her life, Gunter Delfing. Gunter has been at mom’s side ever since. Mom’s first battle with breast cancer was in 1988. The birth of her first grandchild, Katherine, helped her through some dark times. Mom rebounded and began a ten year career with the German Canadian Congress. The German Choir continued to be a big part of their lives, becoming like second family. Mom had a right to be proud of her time as president, a role she thoroughly enjoyed. The dark cloud of cancer returned in 2009, but mom fought on, defying the odds and gracing us with four more years of special memories. At this time, the family would like to thank the amazing staff at Riverview for their loving, attentive care. They helped to make this difficult time a little bit easier. Friends – we appreciate all that you’ve done and all you continue to do. As per mom’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place on Wednesday, June 26th, 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverview Health Centre.