January 5, 1928 – June 29, 2024.
Jaroslava “Jerry” Vejvoda passed away in Claresholm on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at the age of 96.
Jaroslava was born on the family homestead in Třemšín near Prahatice in former Czechoslovakia. Growing up in rural Bohemia showed her how to survive in difficult situations with hard work, perseverence, and making the most out of what you have. She learned many skills during those times she used throughout her life.
She met the love of her life Bedřich, and they were married July 22, 1961. They moved to Praha to start a new life, where she worked repairing sewing machines among other jobs. They enjoyed city life, loved returning to Třemšín and Bavorov to visit family, but had to make the difficult decision to leave their home in 1968, emigrating to Canada with nothing more than one suitcase, to provide a better life for their young son.
With the support of their family friends in Canada, Julius and Mary Hasil, they settled in Claresholm. After initially living in a mobile home at the airport, they moved into town. Jaroslava worked as a labourer at Safeway Shelter Systems for many years, then eventually cooking at the Black Forest Restaurant where she met her lifelong friend Therry Fuegl. She continued repairing sewing machines on the side, cleaning and providing flowers for her church, and helping at the Bar 15 Ranch where she became part of the family.
She loved gardening, cooking and entertaining. You never left her house with an empty stomach, or without taking leftovers.
“Babi” is lovingly remembered by her son Tomas (Kimberly) Vejvoda, granddaughter Jordan, and grandson Sean.
Jaroslava was predeceased by her parents Josef and Jaroslava Stary (Stará); brothers Josef, Jan, Karel and Václav; sister Marie, and her beloved husband Bedřich.
The family wishes to express their gratitude to Dr. Jones, the staff at the Claresholm General Hospital, the Willow Creek Continuing Care Centre, and the Porcupine Hills Lodge for their compassionate care for Jerry.
A Visitation will be held at Zentner Funeral Homes – 4079 1st Street W, Claresholm, on Friday, July 12 from 5 to 7 PM.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church – 344 50 Ave. W., Claresholm, on Saturday July 13 at 11 AM