Fortems, Lillian C.

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Lillian C. Fortems on Friday, December 31, 2010 at the age of 90 years.  She died in the loving care of the staff of the Strathmore Hospital, Continuing Care Unit.  Lillian is survived by her sons Court (Ruthie) and Mel of Calgary; two granddaughters, Lisa (Matthew) and Laura (Spencer) also of Calgary; and five great grandchildren, Quinn, Xander, Griffin, Lexi and Mia.  She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Lily Gustavsen of Strathmore and numerous nieces and nephews.  Lillian is predeceased by her husband Lucien; parents Karl Gade and Jorgina Pedersen; two sisters, Vera and Elna; and three half-brothers, Arthur, Ejnar and Oscar.  Lillian was born in Strathmore in 1920, attended school in the area, married Lucien in 1937 and farmed in the Lyalta area until 1964 before retiring to Penticton, BC.  Missing the Alberta prairies and their grandchildren, Lucien and Lil returned to the area in 1969.  Lillian will be remembered for her seemingly endless hours spent as a farm wife, her support for the Women’s Institute, her sewing and tailoring skills and her love for family and friends.  Memorial services will be held at Lord of All Lutheran Church on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. Pastor Dawn Nelson officiating.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly to the Strathmore Hospital, Continuing Care Unit (200 Brent Blvd., Strathmore, T1P 1J9).  To send condolences, please visit www.wheatlandfuneralhome.ca.  WHEATLAND FUNERAL HOME LTD (Strathmore) in care of arrangements. 403-934-5666.