SAWYER
Erna Louisa Katie (nee Hoffman)
July 20, 1918 - April 26, 2014
Surrounded by family, Erna Sawyer died peacefully at 4:40 a.m. on April 26, 2014 in Calgary, Alberta at the age of 95 years. She loved and was loved by those she leaves behind: children Michael (Brenda) of Vancouver, Douglas (Sharida) of Victoria and Laura (Cleve) Wershler of Calgary; grandchildren Sarah (Ed), Mark (Stacey), Samantha (Torbin), Peter and Jake; and great-grandchildren Jade, Marika and Dane, as well as sister Frieda and numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her dear husband, Martin Sawyer, in 1990, and siblings Hilda, Frank, Ella, Lydia and Carl. Erna was born near Pilot Butte, Saskatchewan on July 20, 1918 to Theresia and Fred Hoffman, and grew up in Tyvan and Regina. After marrying Martin in September 1942, Erna completed her RN (Class of '43) at Medicine Hat General Hospital while Martin served overseas. When the war was over, they made their home in Red Deer, setting down deep roots in the community where Erna lived until moving to Calgary in 2010. Erna will be remembered by all who knew her, including her children's many friends, for her kindness, wisdom and thoughtfulness. Her beautiful smile will be missed. She was an avid reader, golfer and bridge player, loved concerts and family occasions, and cherished memories of her travels with Martin. Skilled in needle crafts, she made many gifts of framed needlepoint, knitted sweaters and crocheted afghans to those she loved. Erna was proud of her career as a public health nurse in Red Deer. She said recently, "The most important thing in nursing is to be kind and not add to anyone's misery." Thanks to all the nurses and caregivers who showed her such kindness in her final home at Beverly Centre Lake Midnapore in Calgary. A memorial celebration will be held in Calgary on Friday, June 20, 2014. Friends are welcome and invited to contact a family member if they wish to receive details. In Erna's memory, donations are gratefully accepted to the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, 3942-50A Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 4E7, 403-343-4773, or at www.rdrhfoundation.com/donate-now