Clarice Goretsky (nee Berkech)

Obituary of Clarice Belle Goretsky (nee Berkech)

August 26, 1934 - Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

October 3, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

 

Clarice Goretsky of Calgary, AB, passed away on Sunday, October 3, 2021 at the age of 87 years.

 

Clarice was born in Prince Albert, SK on August 26, 1934, the oldest of three, one sister (Lorraine) and one brother (Richard). She grew up on a homestead farm east of Prince Albert and learned to knit and crochet at the age of 8 from her mother. Clarice graduated from high school at the age of 16 and became a teacher at 17 to a one-room country schoolhouse, grades 1-9. Clarice taught there for 3 years and then moved to Prince Albert and taught grade 4 for 6 years before making the move to Calgary, where she got married and started teaching. She continued that career for 28 more years, while raising 3 boys, and retired after a total of 37 years.

 

Clarice never really stopped crocheting and knitting but picked up her pace after her retirement. She also loved to play piano and was often asked to play at church, when the regular pianist was unavailable. She enjoyed the challenge of a good Crossword puzzle and loved playing word games at family gatherings. She was also heavily involved with her church in various positions including the leadership team, seniors’ coordinator, and participated in various other committees as the needs arose. Unfortunately, when she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma three years ago, her ability to serve in those capacities ended. Since she started recording the numbers in 2001, she has made 1920 sets of toques and mitts plus 161 separate toques and 312 sets of mitts, 708 dishcloths, 328 slippers, 6 blankets, and 63 sweaters. The toques and mitts have all been donated to H.A.R.T.(Humanitarian Aid Response Team) and are made from donated yarn; she received 29 black garbage bags of yarn from a family member who passed away.

 

Clarice is survived by three sons and one daughter-in-law, Wesley, Winston (Laurel), and Melvin; all of Calgary, AB; three grandchildren, Luke (Lisa), Emily, and Carter, all of Calgary, AB.

 

Clarice is also survived by her sister Lorraine Hrynuik, Prince Albert, SK.; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

 

Clarice was predeceased by her husband Leon A. Goretsky (Apr 2005), parents Lena & William Berkech, and brother Richard Berkech.

 

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Chapel Of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, October 7, 2021 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., and Friday, October 8, 2021 from 9:00- 9:45 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. 

 

Funeral Services will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Chapel Of The Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB), on Friday, October 8, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.  Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Those attending any event will be asked to confirm one of the following, (A) COVID vaccination (date requested), OR (B) a negative COVID test (within 72 hours), OR (C) Medical exemption AND valid government identification (with name & date of birth) OR (D) Under 12 years of age. Condolences, memories and photos can also be shared and viewed here.

 

In living memory of Clarice Goretsky, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.

Clarice's memorial card can be viewed using this link
 



Thursday
7
October

Viewing

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Thursday, October 7, 2021
Chapel of the Bells
2720 Centre St N
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
(403) 276-2296
Friday
8
October

Viewing

9:00 am - 9:45 am
Friday, October 8, 2021
Chapel of the Bells
2720 Centre St N
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
(403) 276-2296
The Viewing will be followed by a Graveside Service at Queen's Park cemetery.
Friday
8
October

Funeral Service

11:00 am
Friday, October 8, 2021
Chapel of the Bells
2720 Centre St N
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
(403) 276-2296
Share Your Memory of
Clarice