April 26, 1928 – October 31, 2014
It’s with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Gerda Caroline Adams, on October 31, 2014 at the Royal Jubilee Hospital. Born and raised in Wiesbaden, Germany, Gerda was predeceased by parents Johann and Fanny Strauch, older sister Hanna (Hill) and by her ex-spouse Dr. Robert McDonald Adams. She is deeply missed by her son Christopher and daughter Laura, her sister Lotte (Efird), and her nephews Bobby, Fred and Jimmie Efird of the United States and Vernon Hill of the United Kingdom.
In addition to being a homemaker, Gerda was a highly-experienced, professionally-trained ballet dancer, having appeared with leading ballet companies in Germany, France and England. She was also an instructor of classical and modern ballet (Cecchetti method) in the communities of Lakeview and Crystal Beach in Ottawa, Ontario. Gerda came to Victoria in 1992 where she not only enjoyed the scenic beauty of the James Bay area but conducted exercise and dance classes and guided recitals at the New Horizons Centre. She also used her creative abilities while enrolled in sculpting classes in the western communities. Her family and friends will miss her resourcefulness to the community as well as her versatile conversation and pleasant demeanor.
The family wishes to extend a thank you to Dr. John Stephen MacKenzie at the Royal Jubilee Hospital for his care, compassion and communication and to the nurses on 3S for their efforts and kindness. Flowers are gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made to the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, Wilson Block, 1952 Bay Street, Victoria, BC V8R 1J8 (www.victoriahf.ca).
A private cremation has taken place and, by request, no service will be held. Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
www.McCallBros.com/obituaries
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Yoka Bailey
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Paul and Velma Adams Chris and Laura: Please accept our deepest sympathies on your loss of Gerda. She was very generous to me when we both lived in Montreal and I was there as a student. More recently, we had dinner together in Victoria and reminisced about former days. These events are always a shock even when it is expected. We hope to see you both in Victoria in August for a visit. Our best wishes and warmest personal regards. Paul and Velma
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Daale Erwick Laura and Chris, so sorry for your loss. Didn’t get to know your mother as much as I would like too, but with a daughter and son as nice as you two are, she must have been a terrific person.
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Douglas Martin Obituary was well written.
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Douglas Martin Sorry to hear about the passing of your Mother, I believe you are going to have some bad days for perhaps some time. Chris you can call me any time or as often as you want. I know you were close to your Mother and I am sure the loss is going to sting. On the other hand she had not a bad life. She made it to 86 without a great deal of suffering and was able to live independently until the last few days. Perhaps a celebration of a life well lived is in order.
Take care.
Doug
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Debby Pratt Oh Laura, my heart breaks with your heart as I know the feeling of having someone you love and cherish not with you now. But rest assured, dear friend, that she’ll never be completely out of reach as she’ll forever be with you in many ways that no one will ever be able to alter or take from you. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you and your family.
Debby Pratt
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Shirley Rogers You are all in my thoughts and prayers. I was glad to have had a chance to meet Gerda. What a kind and loving lady. Find comfort in the wonderful memories your mom created for you, Laura. I know that she will always be in your heart. Sending you warm hugs, Shirley
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Susan Lui Dear Laura and Chris
So very sorry to hear of your great loss, may sweet memories provide comfort and blessings. Thinking of you both.
Love
Sue
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Alan Frey Classy lady, much like her daughter. Likely dancing ballet right now as she did in her younger years 🙂 Our thoughts and prayers are with you Laura and family as you go through this tough time.
Alan Frey
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Ossey Akhidenor Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and condolence on the passing away of your mother. I know this is a difficult moment but for your consolation, cherish the beautiful moment and the treasure of love she left behind. Those memories are priceless and for ever live in your hear forever.
My prayers and thoughts are with you. Stay strong and be courageous.
Again accept my deepest and heartfelt condolence. Take care.
Love Ossey
Laura,
So very sorry about your loss, please accept my condolences and sympathy. I remember from the time we worked together how close you were to your mother.
Take care
Yoka