Obituary of Florence Zepik (Covelli)

Florence Emelia Josephine Zepik (Covelli) March 30, 1917 - May 16, 2010 With sadness at our loss and joy for our "Miracle Mom" and her wonderful life ahead, our family wishes to announce the passing of Florence Zepik our beloved Mother, Grandmother, and loyal friend. As her spirit took flight she was surrounded by much love in her sunlit room that she called home for the last six years. Florence was predeceased by her mother Mary, her Father Giovanni, husband Martin, son-in-law Raymond, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Mom is survived by her two daughters Elizabeth (Arthur), Louise (Peter), and her grandsons Tyler and Anthony. Florence was born to Mary and Giovanni on March 30, 1917 at the General Hospital (HSC). She was the younger of two girls, her older sister being Mary. Mom attended St. Adolphe convent for her grade school education followed by Success Business College. She became a law firm secretary as well as bookkeeper for Sam and Beatrice at the Queens Caf�. Prior to her marriage in 1946, Mom attended Normal School. Martin and Florence welcomed the birth of their two daughters and thus Mom chose to substitute teach allowing her the flexibility to be a stay-at-home mom. The foursome happily moved to E. Kildonan where they lived until 1963. Mom's kind, compassionate, nurturing nature earned her the role of Mom to many of the neighbourhood children who needed some TLC or a dish of spaghetti, and always fresh baked goodies. Being a teacher at heart Mom taught us to bake, cook, sew, crotchet, knit and garden. Not only did she enjoy sharing her knowledge and expertise but continued to hone her skills by attending evening classes, taking gourmet cooking, learning the German language which she added to her already fluent French and English. She then proceeded to upgrade her secretarial skills at RRCC and became the Secretary to the Director of Transportation for the RESD until she retired. Throughout our childhood Mom and Dad always encouraged us, and set an example of living life with honesty, integrity, respect, and faith. Even in her declining years when the ravage of dementia took its toll, Mom's inner strength and tenacity saw her through many traumatic experiences. Our heart felt thanks to our dear family friend Mildred whose loyalty, compassion, visits, and prayers were greatly appreciated. To our friend Hamilton, many thanks for his affection and attentiveness. To the nurses, health care workers, dietary, and recreational staff of Middlechurch Home who showed Mom tenderness and genuine concern for her well being - we salute you and thank you. Mom was, and will continue to be a blessing in our lives as she will always hold a place in our hearts and will continue to watch over us. May she rest in peace. Cremation has taken place. A memorial Service will be held on Friday, May 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. In lieu of flowers, donations in Florence's memory may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, or Cancercare Manitoba.