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June 29, 1920 – January 18, 2012

With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our extraordinary mother HILDA SMAHA at Hilltop House in Squamish, B.C., Wednesday, January 18, 2012.

Hilda was born June 29, 1920 in Lodz, Poland. At age 10 she sailed with her mother and sister from France to Halifax, then crossed Canada by train arriving in Hazelton, B.C. to join their father.

Hilda lived in the Terrace area for all the 80 years since her arrival; first in the tiny community called Copper City where her family homesteaded, and later moving to Terrace with her husband John in 1949 to establish and become co-owner of Terrace Dry Cleaners.

Mom loved the area and found much pleasure in the woods surrounding the region, picking wild mushrooms and huckleberries. She particularly loved to walk, and in her later years was often seen strolling about town with her walker greeting all with a smile and a pleasantry.

Hilda was a gentle soul who thoroughly enjoyed her garden, family and grandchildren. She will be remembered and loved always. She is survived by her son Ron (Megan), her daughters Linda Bentz (Trevor), and Carolyn Goss, and her daughter-in-law Sally Smaha; grandchildren Pat, Rick and Reg L’Estrange; Larry Smaha; Steve and Warren Bentz; Lindsay Smaha, Sarah Gyorfi, and Courtney Smaha; Caitlyn and Sierra Goss, plus 9 great grandchildren. Also survived by her sisters Elsie Gerdes (Derric) and Norma Shelley, and many nieces and a nephews. Hilda was predeceased by her husband John, her daughter Marie; her son Jack, grandsons Gary and Wayne L’Estrange, grandaughter Leah Owens; and her sister Gertrude.

A memorial service will be held for Mom in Terrace early July, and all who wish to pay their respects will be warmly welcomed.



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