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Obituary: Elfriede Boras

'She was strong and determined, and faced every challenge with courage and dignity.'
boras-july-25-2025

May 13, 1924 - July 1, 2025

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Elfriede Boras on July 1, 2025, at the age of 101, with family by her side.

Predeceased by her husband, William, brother Henry Medzech, and daughter Brigitte Washenfelder. She is survived by her daughter Judy Heyer; grandchildren Kimberly Ann Langden (Bill), Brooks Washenfelder (Jackie), Christopher Washenfelder (Cheryl), and Kelly Chiatto (Rob), and nine great-grandchildren.

In her 101 years, Mom witnessed a world of changes. She was born May 13, 1924, in Hamm, Westfalen, Germany, to Wilhelmina and Franz Medzech. She moved to Canada with her family at age nine during the Depression, then back again to Germany. She met her one true love, William (Willi), at age 16. The war years separated them, but once the war was over, they decided to move their young family to Canada in 1951, settling in Saskatchewan. Winter in Saskatchewan was a shock to Mom, and I know how homesick she was for the family she left behind in Germany.

Once they settled in Saskatoon and met many of their lifelong friends, she and my dad were actively involved in the German Canadian Club Concordia. Mom was an excellent cook and baker. The tortes she baked to be raffled off never made it to the front door of the Concordia. Mom was an ideal hostess and went out of her way to make her guests feel welcome. She also enjoyed knitting and crocheting, and everyone in the family had pieces of her expert knitting. Mom had her hand in anything creative, but she shone on the dance floor with Dad. From waltzes to polkas to jives, they moved as one.

Mom was a kind and caring person who put the needs of her family first. She was strong and determined, and faced every challenge with courage and dignity. She was a source of inspiration to her family and will be deeply missed.

In all the photos where they stood as a couple, Dad held Mom’s hand. I know that he’s holding her hand now. Love you, Mom. 

A special thank you to Dr. Koopman and the caring staff at Palliative Care and Hospice.