With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of our beloved mother, gramma, sister, aunty and friend, Olinda (Kroeker) Andres, who passed away peacefully on May 24, 2025 in Bassano, Alberta at the age of 97. A shining example of optimism and joy, she approached each day with a radiant spirit and an unwavering zest for life. Her laughter, warmth, and boundless positivity touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She lived a truly remarkable life—rich in love, experience, and kindness—and leaves behind a legacy of strength, grace, and a deep appreciation for all the beauty life has to offer. Olinda 'Linda' was born on June 13, 1927 to John and Susanna Kroeker on a farm near Leinan, Saskatchewan. She was born into a blended family and had 11 siblings. She received her education in a small schoolhouse out in the country, Lenard School. She was married to Henry Andres on June 23, 1946 in the Turnhill Mennonite Brethren Church, where her father was the pastor. While raising their children, Edward, George, Linda, Ken, and Harold, they lived in Herbert, then Foam Lake, Calgary, and back to Herbert. Olinda worked in the Herbert Nursing Home for ten years and then was recruited as the Director of Care in the Herbert Senior Home for sixteen years. She treasured her memories of working with a fantastic staff. Upon her retirement in 1992, Olinda and Henry moved to Bassano to be closer to the family. Her husband, Henry, passed away on her birthday - June 13, 1997. Her daughter, Ruth, passed away in infancy, her son George died in 2007. A daughter-in law, Joyce, died in 2013, and her youngest son, Harold, died in 2018. Cherishing her memory are her children: Edward, and his children Christine and Ricky; her daughter Linda Donaldson (Dave), and her children James and Audrey (Dave); Ken (Linda), and their children Tanessa and Carson (Rachel); her daughter-in-law Carolyn Corbett (Mike); her great-grandchildren and great great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Her brother, Frank, is 94 and will surely miss his older sister. Her very best friend, Phyllis Riley, has been an important part of her life for many, many years. To all of the staff at the Bassano Health Centre - we are deeply grateful for the compassionate and dedicated care you provided to our mom over the past three years. Your kindness, patience, and professionalism brought her comfort and dignity throughout her final years. Thank you for being a source of support not only to her, but to our entire family during this time. A family graveside service will be held in the Bassano Cemetery. A Memorial Service will take place in the Bassano Knox Presbyterian Church, 334, 3rd Avenue, with Reverend Peter Baek officiating on Thursday, May 29 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to the Bassano and District Health Foundation, Box 120, Bassano, AB T0J0B0, or a charity of your choice. Mom's unwavering faith was a source of strength and comfort throughout her life. As she often reminded us, "The Lord said, I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Hebrews 13:5). She now rests in that eternal promise.