A long-time Red Deer dance instructor has died after a months-long battle with cancer.
Jody-Lynne Liptak, also known as Miss Jody by many in the dance community, passed away Friday, Aug. 13.
Liptak was a dance instructor for more than 30 years, most of which were at the Dance Magic Studio in Red Deer.
“We are committed to honouring Miss Jody’s incredible spirit and the relationships she has built after touching thousands of lives and training hundreds of dancers during her 25 years as a cherished member of our DMS family,” Dance Magic Studio said in a Facebook post this past Sunday.
“There are no words to describe the impact she has had on our lives. The way she challenged us and changed us all at the same time. The way she loved what she did and did what she loved.
“She lived a graceful and meaningful life that meant so much to so many. A life that will live on through the lives of us all. Perhaps there are no words because there doesn’t have to be.”
READ MORE: Support pouring in for beloved Red Deer dance teacher battling cancer
Liptak was diagnosed with breast cancer this past October. A GoFundMe page was launched in January and ended up raising nearly $13,000.
“Her life will be cherished and missed more than words can say. Thank you for blessing us all with your beautiful life. For showing us what it means to follow your passion and to live life from the heart,” the Dance Magic Studio Facebook post said.
Liptak’s obituary said she impacted many in her career as a stylist and esthetician with Chatters and as a dance instructor.
“As a stylist and esthetician, Jody was always welcoming, enthusiastic, and creative and loved to make everyone look and feel beautiful; while putting them at ease and making them feel comfortable,” the obituary said.
“Behind the scenes, Jody always cheered on and supported her colleagues bringing joy to everyone in the workplace. Miss Jody also touched many lives as a dance instructor at Dance Magic Studio; where she was a beautiful, kind woman with a huge heart, who positively impacted and inspired her Dance Magic students.”
The obituary describes Liptak as passionate, dedicated, hardworking and encouraging.
“She had a contagious smile and was a powerful influence on all she encountered,” the obituary said.
“Jody will be lovingly remembered by her parents, Kathleen and Edward, her brothers, Kevin and Kyle, Kyle’s wife, Andrea and their two children, Natnael and Habtamu. Jody will also be sadly missed by an incredibly large and supportive group of friends; as well as her thousands of dance students and their families.”
A Memorial Service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church Tuesday at 1 p.m., followed by a reception at The Cambridge Hotel.
sean.mcintosh@reddeeradvocate.com
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