Anna Ljerka Hlede
We are deeply saddened to share that Anna passed away at the age of ninety-six. She was loved by many for her beautiful soul, constant smile, intelligence, and strength. She lived life without apology!
She was predeceased by her husband Mario (Marijan) Hlede and her son, Rene (Renno) Hlede. She is survived by her only grandchild, Lee James Hlede and his wife, Ashleigh Sangster of Calgary, AB. Her world revolved around Lee. When he was a young child, she taught him her “home” language. At times, Lee would talk in her language to his mother (Laurie Slavin) and she would laughingly have to phone Anna for interpretation.
Anna was born in Pozega, Croatia (former Yugoslavia) on June 23, 1926. During World War II, she became a prisoner of war and worked at an occupied hospital. Her Husband, who was also a POW, who emigrated to Canada after the war. A few years later she followed with their son, where she embraced the culture and was grateful for the freedom. She did miss the warm Mediterranean weather and always stayed bundled up though.
Banff Mineral Springs Hospital was fortunate to have employed Anna for many, many years in Housekeeping. She genuinely enjoyed her work and loved spending time with patients and staff. Eventually, she retired to Calgary where she was closer, in proximity, to her grandson.
In recent years she lived at Chartwell Eau Claire Residence where she had many friends and the staff adored her. We thank Eau Claire for the wonderful care they took of her.
In keeping with Anna’s wishes there will not be a funeral service or celebration of life. Her ashes will be spread throughout the mountains of Canmore which she so loved. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Banff Springs Mineral Hospital can be made in her honor.
“Because of your smile, you made life more beautiful.”
