Elsie (Kubske) Bedu

In Loving Memory of

Elsie Bedu

1921 - 2014

It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the passing of Elsie Bedu.

Elsie (nee Kubske) Bedu was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on July 7, 1921. She was the oldest of four children born to Julius and Lena (nee Kronberger) Kubske, who resided in the north end of the city. Elsie loved going to school as a girl, always telling stories of school games and picnics. As a young teenager, she began working to help the family. She worked for a jeweler during the winter months and on a farm during the summer, until moving to the San Clara area with her family when she was seventeen.

Life on the farm was extremely hard, and Elsie learned from a young age the importance of hard work. This work ethic was to become one of her greatest strengths. She always gave 100% to every task she undertook.

One of Elsie's greatest accomplishments was her work at the San Clara Nursing Station. She was extremely proud of this, and her family can recall countless stories of chopping firewood and the friendships she made that were so dear to her heart. She truly loved her work at the nursing station, and she remained there until her marriage.

On May 31, 1944, Elsie married the love of her life, Archie Bedu. They were married for 47 years and their love grew stronger as the years passed by. Together they farmed at the family homestead near San Clara and raised seven children, who she was very proud of. 

Elsie was an active member of the Catholic Women's League at the St. Claire Roman Catholic Church and enjoyed working alongside the ladies at various church events. Elsie and Archie enjoyed playing cards, scrabble, rummy, and curled with friends in the community. They were truly in love and enjoyed doing everything together. 

In 1989, the family gathered with Elsie and Archie to celebrate their 45th wedding anniversary. Two years later, on July 30, 1991, her best friend Archie passed away.  This was a difficult time for Elsie, but with the support of family she carried on. 

In 2002, Elsie moved to Rossburn, where she attended St. Theresa’s Roman Catholic Church. She was devoted to God and could always be found reading her missal. 

Elsie had many gifts and talents, which she shared with all of her family and friends. She loved to bake, and her cookies and pies were appreciated by many. Her garden was enjoyed by all of her children who, upon returning to Winnipeg, had vehicles full of fresh vegetables. Elsie also always loved reading, and in her few spare moments, she would pick up a good book for a read.

Elsie was the happiest when her family came home, and the house and table were full. Family gatherings were a wonderful time at the Bedu household.

Having such a large family with children, in-laws, and grandchildren meant that there were often more bodies than beds. However no one cared, as the memories are truly irreplaceable. 

The entire family surprised Elsie in 2001 by returning to the family farm in San Clara to celebrate her 80th birthday. While she never liked being the center of attention, Elsie enjoyed being able to celebrate with her children and many wonderful friends. Again in 2011, the family celebrated her 90th birthday together in Rossburn, surprising Elsie with the weekend celebration.

Elsie was very proud of her family: children, in-laws, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was the center of the family and always took it upon herself to keep everyone updated on the lives of the others. Elsie would look forward to family visits, and could be found cleaning, baking buns and cookies, and preparing a beautiful meal for their arrival. 

On Saturday, October 4, 2014, Elsie passed away at the Russell Health Centre. The family was comforted in knowing that her passing was peaceful, and how much she looked forward to being reunited with Archie.

Elsie will be lovingly missed and remembered by all. May her soul rest in God’s dwelling place. 

Elsie was predeceased by her husband, Archie, parents Julius and Lena Kubske, her sisters Evelyn (Wayne) Moran, and Corrine (Peter) Carisle. 

Left to mourn her passing are her children: Donald (Barbara) Bedu of Winnipeg, Barbara (John) Kilborne of Winnipeg, Helen (Ed) Perdonic of Winnipeg, David (Lorelei) Bedu of Winnipeg, Richard Bedu of Millet, Alberta, Raymond Bedu of Roblin, and Cathy (Dennis) Didych of Rossburn, Manitoba, as well as 11 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren four step-grandchildren, and their families.

On Thursday, October 9, 2014, at 7:00 PM, a Prayer Vigil Service was held at the Chapel of Nairn-Chyz Funeral Home in Roblin.

On Friday, October 10,, 2014, at 11:00 A.M, a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the St. Claire Roman Catholic Church in San Clara, with Rev. Fr, James Ahaneku officiating. Elsie’s Daughter-in-law, Lorelei Bedu delivered the Eulogy and Barb Kostesky read the Scripture Lessons. Casket Bearers were Brad and Mike Bedu, Jeremy and Mike Didyck, Jason Kilborne and Ed Perdonic.

Following the Interment Service at Ste, Claire Roman Catholic Cemetery, a reception was held at San Clara Rec Co-op.

Rest in peace Elsie, we will carry you in our hearts until we meet again.

NAIRN-CHYZ FUNERAL HOME

Entrusted with Arrangements

Roblin’s Only Locally Owned

and Family Operated Funeral Home

(204) 937-2111

nairn-chyzfuneralhome.com