Sophie VANCHA

Obituary of Sophie Josephine VANCHA


November 7, 1931 – Bellevue, Alberta
November 21, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Sophie Vancha, beloved wife of the late Andrew Vancha on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at the age of 89 years.

Sophie was born in Bellevue, AB, the daughter of a coal mining family, and lived her childhood in Beaver Mines, AB. She worked in the Southern Alberta school system and was committed to always serving and supporting others.

Sophie met Andrew Vancha in Lethbridge, AB and they were married in Taber in 1953.  Shortly after moving to Calgary, Sophie started working for the Calgary Catholic School Board until she retired in 1996. She was a long-time resident of the Bowness community and a proud member of the Roman Catholic parish.

Sophie was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to many. She was an avid volunteer and social butterfly who donated so much of her time helping others. She was a lifetime member of 238 Bowness Legion Ladies Auxiliary, involved with the Lions Club, and an adored member of the Bowness Seniors club. She could be found singing with the Seniors Club Choir every chance she got, and volunteered at numerous long-term care facilities providing meals, comfort and support for those in need. In 2012 she was honoured to be given the Pride in Community Volunteer of the Year award presented by Calgary’s mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Sophie was passionate about gardening and prided herself in her expertise. She cherished time with her family, especially when she could be surrounded by her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed camping, nature, and spending time whenever possible at her sister’s cabin in Beaver Mines.

Sophie is survived by her son Keith Vancha (Ruth McLeod), her daughters, Audrey Hopman and Myra Rich (Bruce); her grandchildren, Josh McLeod (Jordan), Shiloh Cartier (Mike), Gen McLeod, Trish Hopman, Tammy Ervin (Mike), Anthony Rich and Bradley Rich; great-grandchildren, Arianna, Kaida, Hannah, K.C. Williams (Cassandra Hamilton), Jacob, and Claire; and her great-great-grandchild Zsófia; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Sophie was predeceased by her husband Andy Vancha; parents, Staffina and Andrew Wojtyla; her brothers, Carl, Adolf, and Edward Wojtyla, her sisters, Rosie Eddy (Archie), Victoria Biron (Louis), Pauline Brecht (Leonard), and Margaret Heinrich (Ike); and her son-in-law Jack Hopman.

A private family memorial will take place at a later date. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Sophie’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

In living memory of Sophie Vancha, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Airdrie, 300 Towerlane Drive, Airdrie, AB T4B 3L8, Telephone: 403-948-1100.

Sophie's memorial card can be viewed using this link

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