With deep sadness we announce the passing of our beloved mother and omi, Gerda Adeline Schepian (née Naujoks) on July 6, 2022, at the age of 77 years.

Gerda was the youngest of 7 siblings, and was born on May 3, 1945, in Kaufbeuren, Germany. At age 8, the family moved to Heidhausen located just outside of Essen, Werden, where she would eventually meet her future husband, Helmut at the age of 15. After finishing school and becoming a secretary, they married in 1964. Shortly after, they welcomed their first child and Gerda became a full-time stay at home mom. In 1971, they welcomed their second child.

In 1979, Gerda and her husband immigrated to Edmonton, Alberta with the dreams of building a better future for themselves and their two children. They discovered a love for the great outdoors and spent most summers camping at Bonnyville Municipal Campground. In her spare time, Gerda loved doing puzzles, crosswords, and spending time with friends and family.

In 2014, she bravely forged on to accept her Canadian citizenship without her husband by her side, who passed away only a few months prior to reaching this important milestone in her life. She went on to live with her son and family for a few years before moving to Shepherd's Care Kensington, Independent Living in 2019. Her witty sense of humour and kind personality made her well loved by all who met her. She continued to enjoy doing her puzzles and crosswords when she was not busy spending time with her family or watching her favourite shows on TV.

In 2021 she was diagnosed with cancer and courageously underwent surgery and radiation in hopes to beat the disease, but unfortunately the cancer spread, and it was her decision to just enjoy the time she had left with her children and grandchildren. She spent her last few months surrounded by the people she loved and cared for the most.

Gerda is survived by her children, Birgit (Dwaine) and Hart (Angie); her siblings, Wilma and Erhard; grandchildren, Cameron, Cassandra, Katrina, Lukas, and Leo; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband, Helmut; her parents, and her siblings, Ingrid, Rolf and Hugo.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff and nurses at Shepherd’s Care Kensington for the exceptional love and care they provided to our mom.

A private Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 17, 2022. In lieu of flowers, a donation in Gerda's name may be made to a charity of your choice.