Zelma Gilbertson
1924 - 2019
The family of Zelma Maude Gilbertson (nee Anderson), are pleased to announce her graduation from this life on Friday, July 26, 2019 at the age of 95 years.
A private burial service was held at the Taber Memorial Garden on Saturday, August 3, 2019.
Zelma is survived by her daughter Lori Gilbertson of Taber, Bruce (Lorna) Gilbertson of Taber and Byron Gilbertson (Dawn Ohashi) of Taber; grandchildren Ryan Gilbertson (fiancée Brittany Firth), Megan Gilbertson (Brad Rawlinson) and Nolan Gilbertson (Olivia Williams).
She was predeceased by her husband Dale Gilbertson; parents Arnold and Eva (nee Williams) Anderson; siblings Arthur Anderson, Norman Anderson and Lillian Anderson; sisters-in-law Irene Anderson and Irma Anderson.
Zelma was born February 18, 1924 in Barnwell in her parents two room house located on her grandfather’s homestead. She was raised and educated in Barnwell, graduating in 1942. In June of 1942, she attended Normal School in Edmonton after which she spent time teaching grades one to ten in the Wainwright area. In 1943, she went back to Normal School this time in Calgary and in the fall secured a teaching position at the Barnwell School. She received her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta. From 1948 to 1951 she taught in Lethbridge, the years 1952 to 1989 found her in various full-time and substitute teaching positions within Taber. Zelma never met a student she didn’t like.
Zelma loved to learn and was an avid reader. She also did many crossword puzzles in her life and was still doing word find puzzles until a few days before her passing. She was a provincial badminton champion and loved curling. Zelma participated in many bonspiels over the years and watched hours of the sport often while knitting. Many have been blessed by her passion for gardening and baking. She was always willing to share her produce. Her tomatoes were plentiful and delicious. The chiffon cakes and butterhorns were two of her favorites to bake and share. Zelma played the piano and loved to dance. Music was important to her and she often played the war time songs. She could sew and quilt, refinish floors and furniture and was known to do many of her own repairs including fixing her refrigerator. Zelma seemed to have the talent to do most things she put her mind to. She loved this country and the history of this area. Her mind was able to recall many details of the events and people that have lived here over the years. Her favorite place to go was Waterton.
Zelma married Dale Gilbertson on February 9, 1962 and together they raised their three children Lori, Bruce and Byron. In 1976 Zelma bought the shares of Dale’s business partner in Charlton and Gilbertson Farm Equipment Ltd. Zelma was often found on the road to Lethbridge to pick up parts. She was still the business owner at the time of her passing.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Zelma’s name may be made directly to the Taber and District Health Foundation, 4326 - 50 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 1N9 www.tdhf.ca.
The family would like to express appreciation to the staff at the Taber Health Centre and the Good Samaritan Linden View for the care given to Zelma over this past year. Your compassion will never be forgotten.