Elsie Janet Rollie-Gleim

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved Elsie Janet Rollie-Gleim (née: Rekunyk) on Wednesday, December 6th, 2023.  Elsie was born on August 13th, 1941, and was the youngest of five children.

She was predeceased by her parents, Dorothy (née: Sepuniuk) and James Rekunyk; brothers, Paul and Peter (Margaret) Rekunyk; and sisters, Mary (Frank) Ozog and Lena (Ron) Wilson.  Elsie’s life was marked by the profound love she shared with her first husband of 46 years, David Rollie and later, her cherished second husband, Gordon Gleim, with whom she spent six beautiful years.  Elsie was also predeceased by her sons-in-law, John Collier and Mark McCrea.

Left to mourn Elsie’s passing are her devoted daughters, Debbie (Terry) Anderson, their children Brittny (Paul Dixon) and Sanden (Lindy Barta) and their son Hunter, as well as daughter Sherri (Nelson) and their children Nicholaus (LeeLou) McCrea and their daughter Luna McCrea, Angella McCrea, Gabriel (Meghan Penske) Whalen and their children Zane and Violet, and Julian (Paulina) Whalen.  Elsie is also remembered by stepson, Phillip (Cheryl) Gleim and their children and grandchildren; stepson, Leon (Lane) Gleim and their daughters; and stepdaughter, Rose (Gordon) Hamilton and their children and grandchildren; along with numerous brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.  

Born in Moose Jaw and raised on the family homestead in Dunkirk, SK, Elsie’s life was marked by love, resilience and hard work.  Even at the age of six she served as a translator for her parents, skillfully bridging conversations with neighbors and business agents as they navigated a language barrier during those times.  Moving from Dunkirk to Moose Jaw during her teenage years, Elsie pursued a career as a nursing assistant.  It was during this time that she met and married David Rollie where together they began a shared journey that led them first to Prince Albert, SK, where Elsie contributed her skills at the Victoria Union Hospital.  Their path continued to Blue Sky, AB, where Elsie worked at the local hospital in Whitelaw and eventually to Spirit River, AB.  In Spirit River, she not only served at the hospital but also owned and operated an apartment building with Dave.  Their adventures eventually took them to the Yukon, where they settled to raise their children.

In Watson Lake, Yukon, Elsie owned and was the vibrant force behind the lively Sears Catalogue Office, a beloved hub where the community came together for laughter and camaraderie.  Elsie held a pivotal role in cultivating joy within the town, whether she was donning Gold Rush attire for the town’s annual events or adding humor to the various bonspiels hosted at the airport or town.  Her unparalleled reliability in organizing and rallying the community was unmatched and her dynamic personality, intelligence, and strength made an indelible mark on the town.

After moving back to Moose Jaw many years later where they opened a deli, Elsie and Dave moved to Saskatoon and then Assiniboia where sadly her beloved Dave fell ill.  Following David’s passing in 2003, Elsie opened the successful Yesteryears Ukrainian Borscht Company in Moose Jaw, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering work ethic.  

In 2017, Elsie found happiness again with her loving soul mate, Gordon Gleim.  Their marriage was a source of immense joy, and Gord’s children warmly embraced Elsie into their family, bringing her immense gratitude and happiness.  Elsie was not only their stepmother, but she was also their very good and dear friend.  

Elsie’s love for her family was boundless and she cherished every moment.  The grandchildren share numerous delightful and affectionate tales about their grandmother, forming a special bond among them.  ‘Fancy Grandma’ or ‘Grandma Gussie’ brought joy to her granddaughters, Angella and Brittny, as they eagerly waited for her to put lipstick and jewelry on them when they were young.  Naturally, she was always giving them an abundance of love and kisses and it was always the highlight of their day!  Meanwhile the grandsons hold dear memories of Grandma Elsie’s humor, including changing the words to songs or stories she was reading to them to make them laugh and of course always knowing they were the cherished apples of her eye.

Elsie’s charisma, intelligence, and impeccable style, accentuated by her well-coordinated outfits, perfect makeup, hair and chunky jewelry, made her a memorable presence.  She was a trail blazer; she was dynamic, and her outstanding spirit and warmth will forever be etched in our memories.  

We extend our gratitude to the numerous friends and family members who offered unwavering support during our mom’s brief stay in the hospital.  We are aware that she too, felt deeply touched and appreciative of the kindness shown.  A heartfelt acknowledgment is reserved for our Uncle Ron and Aunt Glenys Rollie, Uncle Ron Wilson, Cousins Kevin and Darla Wilson, close friends Shannon (also her amazing hair stylist), and Dani & Grant Forness, all of whose steadfast support was invaluable.   Our gratitude is profound, and their generosity will forever be etched in our hearts.  

We would also like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the remarkable medical team at the Dr. F.H. Wigmore Regional Hospital for their exceptional care during Mom’s last days.  They ensured her comfort, took the thoughtful step of styling her hair, and even brought her homemade perogies, a gesture that touched her deeply.  Our gratitude knows no bounds — thank you!  

In honoring Elsie, a Celebration of her Life will take place on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the Prairie Oasis Tourist Complex Event Space, 955 Thatcher Dr in Moose Jaw, SK.  We invite and would be honored to have all family and friends join us in commemorating the remarkable life of our mother Elsie Rollie-Gleim.  Arrangements are entrusted to Moose Jaw Funeral Home, 268 Mulberry Lane.  Gary McDowell, Funeral Director 306-693-4550