Denise Eckstadt – Our Mom – has passed on today. She is loved by so many. Mom touched the lives of everyone she met. She said “A stranger is a friend I haven’t met yet”.
You can also read more about Denise Eckstadt’s Birthday Party Mom turned 89 in June, and we are so fortunate to have so many happy memories.
Mom would knit her scarves – and give them away — she called them “Hugs from Grandma”.
Daughters Diana Walker, Roselyn Phare, and Goldie Denise Caldwell would appreciate you leaving your memories and expressions of love for our Mom, below. Thank you.
I’m so sorry, Diana. As much as our minds know that our loved one’s body was ready, our hearts just break, wanting just one more day.
((hugs))
N
I’m so sorry. My prayers be with you. Lucy williams.
Diana,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Please take care of yourselves!
April
God be with you as you all grieve the loss of your mommy. You will be in my prayers.
My Diana,
I am so sorry to hear this news… Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love Always,
Vanessa
Diana,
I’m so sorry for your loss. From the stories you’ve told, she sounds like a remarkable woman who blessed so many people.
My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
(((HUGS)))
Christina
Sending my hugs, love and prayers to your family at this time
Diane, my blessings to you and your family. Knowing your Mom has left her earthly home and gone to a better place, although you will miss her terribly, what a comfort for you. I only met your Mom once at a Sunrider picnic probably 10 years ago. How special she was to all of you.
May God be with you at this time.
Hugs,
Ann Hrynyk
Diana, Please accept my sincere condolences, my prayers and love goes out to you and your family. God Bless, Jacqueline
Diana, please know that I am praying for you with all of my heart for peace and that God will comfort you.
Diana & family
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your Mom. She sound like someone everyone would have loved to meet. May she rest is peace.
Kat
Dear Diana and family,
Please accept my sincere condolenses on your mother’s passing. She was truly a woman of strenghth and incredible creativity. Her stories were so wonderful to read. I will always remember her answering the door at your home in Salmon Arm and when I asked if Diana was home she looked at me with skeptism and answered, “well it depends on who’s asking”. We laughed about that for some time. Her humor was infectious and she offered her love so unconditionally.
With prayers and love,
All My Relations,
Gwen
Diana,
Deepest sympathies to you and the family..I never got to meet Mom but heard such wonderful things about her.
Wishing you strength during this difficult time, and may you remember forever all the great times together.
Daryl and Cesar
Dear Diana and family,
Please accept my condolenses on your mother’s passing. She was truly a woman of strenghth and incredible creativity. Her stories were so wonderful to read. I will always remember her answering the door at your home in Salmon Arm and when I asked if Diana was home she looked at me with skeptism and answered, “well it depends on who’s asking”. We laughed about that for some time. Her humor was infectious and she offered her love so unconditionally.
With prayers and love,
All My Relations,
Gwen
Dear Diana and family,
Your mother was truly a woman of strenghth and incredible creativity. Her stories were so wonderful to read. I will always remember her answering the door at your home in Salmon Arm and when I asked if Diana was home she looked at me with skeptism and answered, “well it depends on who’s asking”. We laughed about that for some time. Her humor was infectious and she offered her love so unconditionally.
With prayers and love,
All My Relations,
Gwen
I pray for strength for you and your family, during this time, Diana. please accept my deepest condolences.
Sincere~
What a beautiful mom. I’m so sorry for your loss Diana. Praying for you during these hard days ahead.
Diana,
I don’t know you very well but I am very sorry for your loss. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding comfort you and your family during this difficult time.
Please accept our love and thoughts for you and your sisters at this time. We know how wonderful your mother was and how much you all cared for you and how much you will miss her. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. May God be with you.
Dear Diana, What a blessing to know your mom, Denise, is in heaven! I rejoice with you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Love, Susie Wohar XOXOXO Peace, health and happiness.
Dear Goldie, Diana, Rosie and families,
We’re so sorry to hear that Grandma Denise has passed over. She was such a beautiful soul and will be missed by all that knew her.
Our prayers will be with you at this time and always.
May the Great Spirit bless you all and keep you in the palm of his hand.
Love Dianne and Dan
Diana,
I’m so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing. It is so hard to lose a parent. I lost my dad back in April and my mom 26 years ago. My dad was 93, but it’s never easy.
It sounds like your mom had a good, long life. And now, the best is to come for her.
Blessings to you and your family.
Diane,
My condolences to you and your family for the loss of your beautiful mother. May the happy memories that you have of her be with you always.
My dear Diana.
I am so sorry for your loss. Please pass on my condolences and love to your family.
Sincerely,
Arturo
Dear Diana,
To lose a mother is something I can’t fathom right now, but I do feel your loss and hope that you and your sisters are able to give each other comfort. You have your memories that I know will help you through the days.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Hugs,
Sharon
Dear Diana, Goldie,Rosie and Families,
I was so sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing.
She was such a joy to all who knew her.
Blessings to each of you in this time of loss.
Sincerely,
Kathryn Sutherland
Diana and Family, Our prayers are with you at this time of loss of your dear mother. May each day bring a sense of peace within, and the memories of your Mom be forever filled in your hearts with Love and Peace. Sincerely George and Tovie Green
Diana, you and your family are in my prayers tonight. I’m very glad that you know where she is and who she is with.
Diana and Goldie/Denni–
My condolences on the loss of your mom. May your happy memories sustain and inspire you during your time of grief.
Thank you so much, Di, for creating this page where we can share our thoughts/feelings about Mom (Denise Eckstadt). A BIG “Thank you” to everyone for sharing their love, prayers and kindness. Mom “transitioned” at 3:45 p.m. today (Sept 27) – which is the time you called me in Salmon Arm, Di, cuz you just “knew”! I looked up the number 345 in my Angel Book (by Doreen Virtue) and following is the message it had (I loved it, so I wanted to share):
“The angels and ascended masters are guiding and protecting you through life changes that help you in your role as an Earth Angel. Surrender stress or fear about change to Heaven, for a smoother transition.”
Mom truly was an “Earth Angel” and I am grateful she was my Mom, and she is now at peace. May God grant us all peace and love.
Diana, my heart goes out to you, I truly know what you are going through lost my mom in 96 and dad in 06….. just hold on to the wonderful memories,,,,,, she seemed like such a sweet lady, you are so lucky to have such a loving and caring mom Diana…..Again my sympathy and love goes out to you and your family during this time ,,,and find peace with our lord ,,,,, hugs from Carol in Washington
With Sympathy
So sorry for your loss
Dear Rosie, Denny, and Diana and families,
Sorry to hear of Mother’s passing. Our sympathies and prayers are with you at this time. She was a remarkable woman.
With our love and fondest memories
Marion and Roy Lewin (NZ)
Hi Diana, Rosleyn and Denise and all member of famlies,
As I open my e mail to-day and read this sad news Shahida & I were so sad and shocked. We have been praying for her this holy month of Ramadan for her recovery, but we suppose this was God’s will and no one can do any thing as she is in a better place. As we belive she has passed away in this holly month and specially on 27 of Ramadan she has got place in haven. I will call to find out when the funeral will be to send her some flowers. Please convey our message to every one there.
With our love and memories
Shahida & Hasan
Diana,
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Kim
Dear Denise and family. As I looked at your mom’s photo, such love flowed from her. Her eyes sparkle. Now she is with her heavenly family and remember that she is with you in spirit always. She asks that you celebrate her life, do not mourn as she has only left you physically. Share your wonderful memories of when she made you laugh. Much love being sent your way from ALL. Kay
Thinking of you at your time of loss, please know we love and care.
Thoughts and prayers to you and your family~
Kimberley
We are sorry for your loss and will keep you in our prayers.
I’m one of the lucky people who received a scarf that your mom made. I wear it every winter.
May you smile toward heaven ever time you think of your mom and the memories she left behind.
Love Nanci
Dear Diane,
I was sorry to hear about the passing of your mother. It is sad to see the passing of an era that a mother represents.
Although she has gone her spirit will influence you still in your daily activities.
Please convey my condolences to the family.
Love Jos
Thank you, thank you, each of you who are pouring your thoughts and love into each post here, and I know that Mom knows how much everyone care.
The legacy she has given to all of us is so beautiful. You will never know how much you are all helping by your caring.
Hugs to each of you.
Diana, and sisters Roselyn and Goldie (Denny) and families
Big hugz. Though I do not know you, Diana, I saw a tweet about your Mom’s passing and had to share a big hug to you. Your Mom would be so proud of you, her daughter who has a warm spirit. May God continue to guide you through your grief and know that your Mom’s spirit is just a whisper away.
Diana and Family,
Even though it sounds like your Mom lived a full, wonderful life…it is never easy to lose a parent! I know you will miss her terribly, but
it is always a comfort to know our loved ones have gone to heaven!
Judging by the fruit she left behind in you, (and her other daughters…) she must have been amazing! Diana, you are an inspiration and wonderful friend to so many people. : )
My thoughts and prayers are with you today!
xoxo
Laury
I just looked at your mom and realized she was waiting to go in with Paul Newman…. I envy her that journey. She looks like she could hold her own with Paul…. What a sweet face..Blessings for you…
Sorry to hear about the passing of your mother, but I’m sure she will continue to have an amazing journey!
Take Care & Rejoice her life,
Greg
Denise, Diana,
All my love to you both and your families. You were blessed to have such a wonderful mother, and she was blessed to have such caring, loving daughters. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of passing.
with love,
Cynthia
We are sorry for your loss and we rejoice in her gain. Blessings to you all.
Margaret and Steve
This is the Seventh Day Adventist church our Mom spearheaded building in Salmon Arm
Diana
Mary Mace wrote this:
Your mother was a remarkable woman. So positive. Kind of fun too. We liked her a lot. We know she was a great mom because she produced such wonderful daughters who loved her and each other. (It is a mark of success when siblings are close and I give some credit to the parents.) We didn’t know Diana or Roselyn but were privileged to know and love Rhoda and Denny. You will miss her but she will always be in your heart and memories. Still, it is sad to know you won’t be able to have a good visit until you are reunited in heaven. I trust she did not suffer.
Sally Foucher wrote this:
Sally sent you a message.
——————–
Subject: Hugs and more hugs
Diana, just wanted to send my condolences on the loss of your mum. She has been an amazing example of what women can be and I feel privileged to have met her. I know that you have gained a lot from having her in your life as have your boys.
As you said, she is truly a woman who ‘is in heaven’. Thinking of you and your family.
——————–
Comment from Tricia Holder:
I an so sorry to hear about your mom and I wish you and your family all the best in this time of sadness.
To all of the Eckstadt girls and their families, You all were such a huge support to your mom in every way possible. Much of her happiness was who you are and all that you’ve done in loving her and helping her. Your wholesome lifestyles and outlook in life makes for a very strong family. Her strength was your strength that made for a very powerful bond. “To live in the hearts of others is not to die.” She will be greatly missed but always loved. Thinking of you all. love, Sandy
My very dear family,
I am naturally saddened that dear Denise has left us, but we can only be thankful that she had such a wonderfully full and fulfilling life, virtually to the end of her days.
Except perhaps for Elena, her sister-in-law, I must have known her longer than anyone else left alive today. As you may recall from past accounts, I remember her well from my boyhood -jolly, bouncing, full of life – then later, at the beginning of my career in the early days of WW2, when she was a nurse at one of the big London teaching hospitals (and possibly even more vivacious than ever). She was very fond of my Uncle Henry, my mother’s elder brother… I don’t think she reallycontemplated marriage with him, but I’m aware that my grandmother told her gently that in any case it couldn’t permitted (the anguiinary laws, and all that) ! By the time I came out of the Royal Navy in 1946,
she had already left the UK as a Candian “war bride”, so it’s safe to say that the last time I actually saw her in the flesh must have been a good 67 years ago !
We re-made contact only in the 1990s, I think; messages from me had somehow gone astray – her changes of address, perhaps – but eventually we did “touch base” once more and I’m very thankful that I had the joy of getting to know her again (and you), albeit at very long distance, over these past couple of
decades.
The previous “take” wouldn’t allow me to correct it, so I’ve resorted to this second message just to round it off.
I have tried to phone Phyllis Lawson in Brussels – a very old friend of your mother’s – and have left a message for her.
You will know, all of you, that my thoughts are very much with you.
Michael
I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. She sounds like she was a wonderful and dynamic woman and I am sure she will be missed. Hugs to you and your family; I will keep you all in my prayers during this difficult time.
My condolences to you Goldie and all your family at this time in your lives. Losing a Mom is very difficult and I will be sending my prayers and loving thoughts your way. I didn’t know your Mom but I have heard she was a wonderful person and it shows in you and your sisters. I send my love to all your family and to your special Mom as she continues on her journey.
Love
Nancy Pryor
Dear Diana, Roselyn and Denny,
Elena, Evelyn and I send you our very sincerest sympathy and hope that Aunt Denise’s last days were peaceful and painless.
Love from
Clive
Diana, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Much love and strength to you in the days ahead.
Linda Hinkle
Dearest Diana, Rosie, Denise:
What an absolutely beautiful picture of your dear mother. Thankyou for the memory you have given each one of us. I remember all the campmeetings graced by her sweet presence. She was not only a delight but an inspiring, devoted Christian woman. You are adult orphans now and no matter how old she was or how old you are, she will always be your “mama.” I mourn with you, the passing of your treasured mama.
“Earth hath no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.”
Love and prayers,
Vicki Rodenbush
Dear Diana, Rosie & Denise,
I had the pleasure of speaking to your mother over the phone only once I wish I had met her, I say this because, She spoke to me when my own life was in the balance. Listening to her voice was a great point strength for me to fight and livel. I paray to the Almighty to give you and your extended families the strength to always remember the good times you had with her. Celebrate the life of your mother!!
Denise Eckstadt Thank you for walking on this earth and giving people the guts to fight on! Good Bye my dear!
“Viya con Dios”
Dear Diana, Rosie & Denise,
I had the pleasure of speaking to your mother over the phone only once I wish I had met her, I say this because, She spoke to me when my own life was in the balance. Listening to her voice was a great point strength for me to fight and livel. I paray to the Almighty to give you and your extended families the strength to always remember the good times you had with her. Celebrate the life of your mother!!
Denise Eckstadt Thank you for walking on this earth and giving people the guts to fight on! Good Bye my dear!
“Viya con Dios”
David.
I am so sorry for you loss. My thoughts are with you today.
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you today.
So sorry to hear about your mother passing over. Please know that she is now in a place of love. My heart is with you and your family. Love, Mari Sue
Diana and family,
My deepest sympathies to you all. May God’s peace and love surround you during this time of grieving.
I had the pleasure of meeting your mom only a few times but she was one of the most gracious women I have ever met. Always smilling with a kind word. My heart aches for your loss. May you find peace in knowing that Heaven is richer because of her.
Love and condolences
Karen
Dear Diane, Rosalyn and Denise.
My sincere condolences to you, her daughters and the extended family. I will remember this gracious lady with the keen sense of humour with fondness. Be well and feel encouraged by your mom’s ability to fully embrace life.
love; Afke
Hello Diana, I am so sorry to hear that your mother passed away. She was an angle on earth and now she is an angle in heaven. My thoughts are with you and your family at this time and I am glad you have each other. The fact that you are such a close supportive and loving family is the result of being raised by such a wonderful mother. Take care Diana. I will call you once things have settled down somewhat for you.
Love Darlene
Dear Diana and Goldie/Denise ,
I am so sorry to learn of your dear Mom’s passing. She was a lovely lady, I am happy that I had the honor of meeting with her and having a visit with her at your home in Salmon Arm, Diana..
She will be missed by all who knew her..
You will have wonderful memories to cherish for the rest of your lives.
Love Dolly
Sorry to hear about your mom, but so glad you had her with you for so many years. She was a special person and I will look forward to seeing her enjoying herself when Jesus comes to take us all to be with Him. I remember her always saying “Happy in Jesus”.
May the Lord comfort, bless, and encourage you.
Hi Goldie, Diane and family,
My heart goes out to you all, losing a mom is a big transition. I have fond memories of your mother, she was truly a wonderful person and has touched many lives with her love, kindness and service to others. You have truly been blessed to have had the mother you were given, and I know her love will continue to sustain you as she embraces the new beginning that has welcomed her from the other side.
Much love,
Dorothy
Diana
May you and yours have the “peace that passeth all understanding” with your Mother’s transition into another better place.
I didnt know your Mother but if she was as you are and I read here that she was……kind, generous, and caring for others she will be greatly missed.
You are in my prayers.
Mary
Hi Diana, Denny and Roselyn,
Blessings upon your mother. I have heard there is a thinning of the veil between heaven and earth (because of the help earth is needing at this time) and more folks are going to the other side to generate that help. So nice to know your Mom is continuing good works for us here on earth. I know you all will continue using the strengths she instilled in you.
Love, hugs and blessings.
Diane
Diana
I’m so sorry, my prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
Dear Diana and family
I am so sorry for our loss. We are family.
With our love and memories
Tida
Diana and Denise –
I am sorry about your loss. You will be in my prayers. I hope the memories of your Mother live on forever and that they will also help you through this difficult time.
My condolences to you and your family at this time in your lives.
Losing a Mother is very difficult. I did not know your Mom but have
heard she was a wonderful woman – just like you, Goldie and Diana..
Sending you loving thoughts. My prayers are with you.
Love
Nancy Pryor
Our sincere condolences Goldie, to you and your family, our hearts are with at your time of loss. We have all watched your devotion to your mother as you have cared for her as her health failed, she was as blessed to have you for a daughter as you were to have her for a mom. I know your sisters shared that caring and love.
Know we are here to support you through this transition and our hearts and thoughts are with you all.
Your teammates at The Employment Place
Dear Diana, Denny, Rosie and families,
As I write a tear is slipping down my cheek. I just loved Gramma Denise! Yes, she knit me scarves, fed me many a meal over the years, and listened with patience any time I needed to just talk.
What I remember so strongly was what an incredible support she was to you girls at times when you really needed it. For the best years I knew Denise, she was Diana’s best friend, helper and sometimes babysitting for Gabe. Also, as the years went by and your children grew and left home it was then time for you to be her incredible support as her body and vision started to fail. To the end, when I visited her in the hospital and asked how she was, she replied “Happy”!. Her voice barely a whisper, her eyes closed in exhaustion, and yet so determined to leave only a kind word and gentle response.
I can’t believe she is gone. Her writing over the years we both so enjoyed. When we got the paper we would search through it for “Grandma writes” to read that first.
How can such a little gentle woman have such a huge impact on all of us? As we miss her I am sure that you girls are missing her even more.
Rye and I send our deep love and condolences to all of you. A big hug for each of you girls and much love to all the family.
Trudy & Rye
Nova Scotia
Thank you so much
my sister Goldie is here right now.
We leave for Salmon Arm in a couple of hours.
Jasmine/Ahn is here.
We all waved goodbye to Sabrina last night as she left to fly to Turkey.
All the family will be together next weekend – the memorial service is at the Seventh Day Adventist church in Salmon Arm at 2 pm on Saturday.
Jesse will be in Caymans, Sabrina in Turkey
But all other immediate family will be there.
Julie and Chris with Samantha, Mackenzie and baby Jorja (I will meet Jorja for the first time)
Andrew and Gabe will drive together Friday.
So we’ll all be there, and I know you and Rye will be there in spirit too.
Reading your words made me cry right now and Goldie too, both of us here reading and crying.
But that is what is needed.
Love you so much.
Di
Thank you, Thank you to each of you wonderful friends who have posted here, we as family are reading every one, and absorbing the love that you send.
Diana
Denny, Diana
Knowing you both I know that your mother was
a wonderful person.
Sending love and hugs your way!
Sarah
Sarah Klein-Tower
Houston
To the family of Denise Eckstadt,
and especially to my friend Diana,
When I first met you Diana, our conversations were between you, mom Denise and me. I so enjoyed every word that she would share with us while we were on the phone. I feel as though I met her personally. Her “graduation to a higher place” comes with so much emotion. Hold tight to all of your memories for then she will live on forever.
At the time of her passing I was drifting in a boat in Emerald Bay on Lake Tahoe. My daughter had just gotten married.
I send you all of my love.
Chyrl
So sorry for your loss. Prayers out to you and your family. May you celebrate your mothers life in peace 🙂
Hi Diana, Rosie and Denny,
These comments about your mom (Grandma, as many so affectionately called her), are so right on. Your mom was a pillar and a friend to so many. When I first moved to Salmon Arm to teach, she met me at the school and welcomed me. Then she would show up every day to check on me and see if she could run any errands for me or, my favorite, take any pictures. She was my rock when I needed one and I am so grateful for her friendship. And as the years continued, she didn’t stop. She was always an encourager and a sharer. We will miss her! Hans, Rosemary and Kara
Debi Boyle wrote..
Thinking of you, keeping you and your family in my prayers, and asking angels to provide the comfort and strength you need at this hard time of letting go of your mom…just for a little while.
Sending love,
Debi
Dear Diana, Denise, and family, I had not had the opportunity to meet your mother but I know how special she was to you all. I am so sorry for your loss as I know what a sad time this is. Yet, you all must have such wonderful memories of her and with her at peace now in heaven, may you have the strength to get through this most difficult time in your lives. I wish I could be there with you to give you a great big hug. Much love to you all. Jo Anne
Dear Diana: We were soooooo sorry to learn that your mother has passed away but we are comforted that she is in a place that is “better by far.” We had the privilege of knowing your mother and were always blessed by her beautiful smile and kind words. I am a recipient of one of her “hugs from gramma” scarves and will treasure it always, thinking of her every time I wear it. Our hearts and love are truly with you , and we pray that her love and God’s love will sustain you in the days ahead as you mourn her loss. God bless!
Love and prayers,
Stan and Phyllis Smith
Dear Diana,
This is a time of great loss to you. You will miss your mother immensely. BUT she is in good hands and happy with the Lord.
Love, Louise
Diana,Rosie and Denise. I don’t have the have the words! Your Mother was truly an angel to me! I have sent a message via emalill. I wish Peace and Blessings to you in this trying time. God bless you all. Michael Caldwell :o)
Diana and Denny,
Sorry to be so late in sending my condolences, didn’t check my email since Friday. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your mother had a long life and hope ours are as long and pleasant. May peace and joy surrond you as you pass through this sorrowful time.
Love
George
Diane,
I am sorry for your loss. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
Cindi
diana, my condolences. your mom will be in my family’s prayers, as will you. take care!
Our condolences on your loss. We wish you and your family all the best.
Denise and family — My heartfelt regards to you as you say goodbye to your Mom’s physical presence. She has left a positive impact on this community, and lives on in her family. Enjoy all the memories and the life that she gave you. Love and Peace, Joan
Dear Diana, Rosie and Denny,
We are so shocked and in tears right now to learn about Gramma’s passing. We love her so dearly and she was always an inspiration to us at Mountain View Manor. Everyday was a “Happy in Jesus” day at the home. We surely miss Gramma…but we are looking forward to see her again when Jesus comes and all of us will be “happy in Jesus” forever.
Keeping your family in our prayers.
Diana, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. My condolences and thoughts will be going out to you and your family.
Love Angela
Dear Di, Rosie & Denny,
Thanks you so much for sharing your mom with us. She was our Canadian “mother”. It has been such a privilige to know her over the last nearly 40 years. We are going to miss her. Alway looking on the bright side, and yes “Happy in Jesus” is still ringing in our ears. This is not the end, and one day we will all be together again. No more tears or sorrow. So many happy memories, how to you begin.
Love and prayers from each one of our family to yours.
I do remember her, such a light; so happy I have seen her in person..
Words do not come easy to me. Parents should be eternal!!! I know mine are..
I love you, think of you, may her passing be peaceful, find what we are all looking for on the other end of this world and hopefully there will be a time when together will be possible ,again. Love you, miss you, pray for all of you.
Dear Diana, I’m so sad to hear about your loss. It’s clear that your mom positively touched many people’s lives. Shes so sweet, I wish I met her. Your sister must be happy now that they’re together.
Here’s a poem that might bring comfort:
Don’t cry too much,
I’ve earned my wings
to fly ahead
where angels sing
Francine & I will say a special prayer for you tonight at bedtime.
Big hugs of love to you,
Elaine, Francine & Carmen xoxoxo
My family thoughts and prayers are with you.
A Prayer for your Mother Denise … what a wonderful legacy she leaves… a wonderful family.
The Infinite Life of God is Perfect, Whole, and Complete. No matter what the appearance, I hold to the truth and look behind the form into the perfection of Divine Love and Light.
The All Power of the Loving Presence is now being activated into a greater good for Denise and everyone around her. There is a turning from the pain, a moving through the pain, into freedom. Denise is now free to choose a different reality and is entirely supported in choosing Truth, Peace, Wholeness. I accept and claim this for Denise and know that it is God that is the Power back of all Life. I see Denise filled and surrounded by Divine
Light and Perfect Peace. Everything that is taking place is for the highest and greatest good of all concerned, and so I release any fear, anxiety, control about this situation and allow the Spirit to transform Denise.
All is well, as I breathe in peace.
And so it is.
Love to you all!
Gwen
Thank you everyone for sharing your thoughts and memories with our family. Grandma is still the most amazing woman that I have ever known. The things that she had to overcome and the way she raised her 3 amazing daughters is an insperation to us all.
No matter what was happening in our busy lives grandma would always find a way to make us “happy”. Still to this day my fondest memories are visiting grandma in North Canoe and taking long natural walks with her an my mom. Grandma always had a great story to tell during our walks.
I truely feel grandma is now with me where ever I go now and looking over me. I have been blessed to have had such an amazing and beautiful woman be such a huge part of my life. Grandma thank you for everything and I love you so much. And I know you are anwering back “ditto.”
Denise was such a special lady. Years ago I was going through a rough time in my life when my children were very small, and my thoughts were, “I should be out working, not just taking care of my children.” I saw Denise one day in the mall, I didn’t have a clue who she was and she walked up to me and told me that the job I was doing, raising two children, was the most important job I could possibly be doing in my life.
Her words stuck with me as a message from God. I continued to be a stay at home mom with no regreats. Months later my husband and I were baptized into the same church as Denise and that is when I learned of who this nice lady was. I am sure she was a blessing to all who met her and she will be missed.
Sandy Linville
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for your loss. Tears of sadness will fade away however prayers for the soul of Denise will be taken up with God. This is a thought I’ve learned during the wake of my mom.
Take care,
Avelyn
Dear Diana and Goldie and Family,
I am sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing, and my thoughts are with you. I only met your Mom once, years ago, what a sweetheart!
My deepest sympathy,
with love,
Andrea
Dear Rosie and family,
It is with warm memories of Denise that we hold dear to our hearts. Josh and Jessica fondly remember the loving church classes she held for the children. Denise will be remembered for her beautiful smile and positive outlook. If asked “how are you” she would always respond with a smile and say “I am happy”. A lovely gentle woman with grace. She was truly a special part of our family.
We love you all, Carolynn and Doug, Virginia Cooper, Kathie and Roger
In Loving Memory of
Denise Eckstadt
Born at
Johannesburg, South Africa
June 5, 1919
Died at
Salmon Arm, BC
September 27, 2008
At the age of 89 years
Memorial Service
Seventh Day Adventist Church, Salmon Arm, BC
Saturday, October 4, 2008, 2:00 pm
Memory Pictures
Prelude Music – Keith Phare
Welcome – Maureen Magee
Scripture and Poetry – Diana Walker, Gabe Walker, Goldie Denise Caldwell
Congregational Hymn
Harp – Ahn Caldwell van Mentz
Life Sketch and Tribute – Julie Dubyna, Andrew Phare, Maureen Magee
Musical Selection – “His Eye is on the Sparrow” – Noelene Whippy and Goldie Denise Caldwell
Words of Comfort – Malcolm Graham
Open Mike
Closing Hymn – “It is Well With My Soul”
Closing Prayer – Malcolm Graham
Coordinator – Roselyn Phare
Organ – Keith Phare Piano – Debbie White
Guest Book Attendant – Ahn Caldwell van Mentz
Dear Friends
Thanks again for all the outpouring – there are over 100 wonderful, beautiful good wishes and outpouring of support, and thank you each one.
I am in Salmon Arm, preparing with my sisters Roselyn Phare and Goldie Denise Caldwell for the Memorial Service on Saturday, and we are having lots of tears as well as happy memories together.
Most of the immediate family will be here, and we expect around 200 people at the service. I will be reading scriptures along with poetry that my wonderful Mom wrote. (I hope I can keep serene and not cry too much at the front at the podium. My son Gabe will be by my side). And my son Jesse Walker (you can see his comments above) will be in the Cayman Islands and be here in spirit.
Love
Diana
Hi Diana, Denny & Roselyn
So sorry to hear of your Moms passing…I didnt get a chance to know her really well, but I do remember her gentleness and the kindness in her eyes!
My condolences to all of you, take care
Love Sheri
Diana and family,
My thoughts and feelings have been with you all on your Mom’s setting out on the next stage of her sacred journey.
She sure did live and love a full and creative life and her beingness will have touched many in very good ways. It is a privilege having known her.
An Angel on earth; an Angel in Heaven!
Lots of love from the heart of…
Gary
Dear Diana and Denny and family’s,
I am very sorry for your loss.
My condolences to all of you.
Beate
Diana, Gabe and Family,
May god bless you and keep you during your time of grief.
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Lots of Love,
Sincerely
Amber
Dear Goldie and Family,
I empathize with your loss. Even though it is the natural order of life that our parents leave us, I remember how overwhelmed I was when my father died, so I have great compassion for you all. There’s a short one liner that I think says it all — “That which once brought great joy also brings great sorrow”
May all your memories be heartwarming.
Sincerely,
Sandra
Warmest hugs to you in this transition. Lots of love to you Goldie, Anh, Sabrina and family.
Robyn
Diana,
Sweet condolences to you and your family. Your Mother’s life is a testimony of so many of us who only wish we could be remembered in such a beautiful way. She’s at peace now and surely in a much better place. Sending you bountiful hugs and strength. ~ Regina
I remember when Denise came to the newspaper office and asked me if she could submit an article. The first article by a senior was so popular that she was given a heading, Grandma Writes, and invited to submit more articles. They were read by many.
Denise had a good life and was an inspiration to others. All those who knew her were blessed by her smile and her positive attitude.
Although she will be missed by her family, I know from a conversation on the street today that there is a feeling of relief that she is no longer in pain, and is with the Lord.
What an excellent way to have us submit our condolences!
Diana
It was a real pleasure to have known your mom. She was quite the lady. I know you will miss her but the memories you have must be a real treasure. Thinking of you.
Diana, I was sorry to hear about your mom’s passing … but I’m glad you have so many good memories of your time together. My thoughts are with you.
Take care.
Cheers,
Dayle
To all of the Eckstadt girls and their families
As my wife, Irene, & my brother Harold joined you yesterday at your mothers memorial service, it was an emotional time for me as it brought back a flood of memories of your mother. (always Mrs. Eckstad to Me as my mother taught me.) One of my fondest memories of your mother, was when I was about 8 or 10 years old she asked me to go with he to the Malakwa store about 2 miles each way. We spoke of many things, and as a young man, I was quite taken with her stories. When we were about 1/4 mile from her home, I realized that she had a large shopping bag in either hand, and I offered to carry them. She kind of exploded, saying you are just like my brother, Alan (I believe was his name.)
you don’t help until its too late, and then want to get all the credit!
I have never forgotten this and and 54 years later have always endeavored to treat ladies like ladies.
My mother, Bjorg Hickson was a midwife for your mother, but I don’t know which child she helped deliver. My mother was also instrumental in your mother joining the SDA church and was one of those trading eggs for mrs. Eckstadt’s baking.
We have kept in touch over the years, and will miss her lovely cards & notes.
Our mother passed October 27th, 1981 and there is never a day go by when I do not think of her. They say it gets easier, but I am still waiting for that time. Our thoughts are with you all!
Dear Diana:
I’m so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad and difficult time.
Keiko
Received from Pastor Ron Nelson, recent Pastor at the Salmon Arm Seventh Day Adventist Church:
Sandra emailed me this news and I wanted to drop a note of encouragement to you at this time. The witness of yourselves and your family have been significant to us and your friendship is valued deeply.
Our prayers are with you! I will fondly remember Denise as an extraordinary, charismatic person. Her gentle, determined zeal for life was expressed daily in her high regard for her Lord. Her witness and love of people was evident in every conversation and writing. Truly, she was an inspiration to me!
May God bless you as a family in this time of loss.
Pastor Ron Nelson
Diana/ Denny / Roselyn & Familys; My / Our deepest regret we could not attend your Mothers Memorium. ( Gene ) I have always enjoyed visiting with her. A kind soft spoken manner she presented was always comforting. I am sure she holds an elevated place in Heaven, as she earned it. (Gail) I met her only the one time and have a Grandmas Hug scarf , it will always remind of her sweet quiet nature . We will all meet again , if what we believe to be is true. God Bless You All …………….. Gene Manason / Gail Harrison ………………..
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Dear Diana & Denise!
Our sincere condolences to you and your family for the loss of your beautiful mother. She was such a joy and we are glad we had the opportunity to know her. May the happy memories that you have of her be with you always.
With Love,
Andrea Langer & Vern Meding
Forwarded from Ella Hoskins
For the family of Denise Eckstadt
It was with sadness that I learnt of Denise’s death. I am sorry that I wasunable to come to her funeral.
It was always enjoyable meeting at War Brides, the poems that she brought. I’m afraid their numbers are very small now. We met also at the Retired Nurses luncheon. I will really miss seeing her on these occasions.
My sympathy and Good Wishes to You All
Ella
To Friends and Family of Denise Eckstadt
I have been deeply touched by the unexpected outpouring of support from so many people after the loss of our dear Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, and friend.
It is difficult to adequately than you for all the beautiful flowers, kind thoughts and actions towards our family.
May we each find comfort knowing that Mother was ready to meet her Saviour and had full confidence in God’s plan for her. It was Mother’s inner strength, her unwavering faith that allowed to her to live her final days in dignity and calm. A peace lover and a peacemaker, she had a great understanding of human nature and was blessed with patience and a great sense of humor. Her influence will live on within us and her sweet and gentle spirit will never be forgotten.
Lovingly,
From her daughter Roselyn Phare
Hi Roselyn,
I’m so sorry about your mum. I think the last correspondence from you was when she had her fall and you were visiting her in hospital.
Larry and I send our love and condolences. I know how close your family is and she will be truly missed. Keep her alive in your hearts. We can never lose our mothers totally. All the best.
Love Bette and Larry
Dear Diana, Denny, and Rosie,
I am sorry this message is belated as i did not know about your mom’s passing until just the other day. Your mom was a great person and her spirit lives on. I always remember coming home to your house with Rhoda after school and making banana milkshakes and eating your mom’s apple pie. She made the best apple pie and in 40 years I have never tasted better. Thinking of you all.
Jeannie Campbell
Dear Diana, Denny, and Rosie,
I am sorry this message is belated as i did not know about your mom’s passing until just the other day. Your mom was a great person and her spirit lives on. I always remember coming home to your house with Rhoda after school and making banana milkshakes and eating your mom’s apple pie. She made the best apple pie and in 40 years I have never tasted better. Thinking of you all.
Jeannie Campbell
Diana I am just now hearing of this. I’m sorry to hear of your loss, I know it must be devastating to lose your mother. I’m sure I will feel much as you do when that day comes for me. We owe our moms so much don’t we?
I’m sure she was a beautiful person!
Diana, I am so sorry to hear that you have lost your Mom and about that awful excident with your son. This will not help but still I wanted to let you know that I feel for you.
Natalia
Thank you so much, each of you expressing your caring and thoughts. It helps so much.
Diana
My sister Roselyn has provided the following words written on sympathy cards received by our family:
I have again read through some of the cards given to us as a family on behalf of Mom and thought I would share a couple with you:
*****************************************
It was a privilege to know “Grandma” Eckstadt for the few years we have been here. God bless you all and give you peace.
Sincerely yours,
Malcolm and Christine Pedlar
*****************************************
Dear Roselyn, Diana & Denny
Just a note to express my sympathy on the passing of “Grandma Eckstadt”. She touched many people and certainly will be missed.
I have some very nice memories of her kindness and her lovely smile. She was inspiring!
Best wishes to you and your families,
Cindy Derkaz
*****************************************
To the family of Denise Eckstadt
What a blessing to have had such a loving Mother and Grandmother for so many years, and she has been a blessing to many other, in so many ways.
Ralph Davis
*****************************************
May you be blessed with all the beautiful memories of your Mother and her hope and trust in Jesus.
Love, Max and Nettie (Kilba)
*****************************************
Diane and Family,
Please accept my prayers and condolence on the loss of your Mother. It is so hard when we have to give them up.
Abundant Blessings & hugs,
Edna Dinsmore
NOTE FROM DIANA WALKER: This email was sent to me from Barbara in March, and I confirmed that she is fine with me posting to this Memorial page for our Mom….
Diana, I meant to get in touch with you right away about your Mom. I didn’t , and I apologize.
I was going through a collection of many things (thinking to clear up some of my clutter), and came across three clippings of Denise’s writings. Two were from her column Grandma Writes. The other, which is my favourite, I had just copied from somewhere. Here it is.
This, the Beginning of a New Day.
God has given me this day to use as I will.
I can waste it or use it for good.
What I do today is important because
I am exchanging a day of my life for it.
When tomorrow comes
This day will be gone forever,
Leaving in its place
Something I have traded for it.
I want it to be gain, not loss;
Good, not evil; success, not failure,
In order that I shall not regret
The price I paid for it.
Denise Eckstadt – 1997
I know I don’t have to tell you what a dear person your Mother was.
I can remember meeting her at a function of some kind where she learned I was new in town, and after a few minutes conversation, she said “Now I need a hug.” Maybe she did, but she also made me feel welcome in my new place. Each time we met after that, I got a hug.
Of course, I suspect that was how she treated most people, and who can guess how much good, encouragement, and warmth she spread around the town to the betterment of all our lives.
A person doesn’t ever forget someone so loving and non-judgemental, so even though Denise is gone, those of us who were fortunate to know her will continue to remember how we should live our lives to the fullest.
I hope things are going well for you in your life, and in your business. It is more important than ever that people look after themselves these days.
It’s hard to know what to expect next.
I am comfortable and settled in my home, and hope to stay here for many years yet. It is nice to be near my three daughters, their children, and the seven great-grandchildren, with another on the way. The oldest will be seven in the summer, so they are all good fun right now.
Very best wishes always – and a hug.
Barbara
Thank you so very much, Barbara. Diana
Just remembering Mom today – it is almost a year since she passed away.
http://www.bowersfuneralservice.com/eckstadt-constance-denise/
Mom’s closest friend, Mildred King, just passed away
http://www.bowersfuneralservice.com/king-mildred-rose/
We miss you both so much.
Love
Diana and all of us family
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