Obituary of Gertrude Ann Smelko

SMELKO – Gertrude (Trudy) Ann:  Trudy passed away peacefully early Saturday morning June 2^nd, 2018 at home surrounded by family after a hard fought battle with ovarian cancer in her 70^th year. Wife and lover of Albert Smelko for 49 years.  Beloved mother of Sera and Greta and cherished grandmother to Evan and Serafina. Trudy was born in Kenora, Ontario, July 29^th, 1948. She attended Notre Dame Academy in Waterdown, before attending Laurentian University in Sudbury, where she met Albert, and completed her degree at York University. She attended teachers college and began her career teaching in North Bay, and taught for many years in Haldimand-Norfolk. Trudy was an active member of OECTA (the Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association) and the Liberal Party. During her lengthy career she negotiated for pay equity and broader issues on behalf of her peers. She was elected President of OECTA, then held the position of Chief Negotiator during challenging times in education. In her retirement Trudy worked with Albert in his Law Practice. Her personal and family life held many blessings. An avid and seasoned traveler, Trudy enjoyed seeing many parts of the world. Family and friends were deeply important to her. Trudy touched the lives of many, personally and professionally. Trudy will be dearly missed by her family and friends, but her contributions to make this world a just and better place live on. Friends are invited to meet with the family on Wednesday June 6^th from 4-7 p.m. at THE BALDOCK FUNERAL HOME, 96 Norfolk St. N., Simcoe. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday at 11a.m., from ST. MARY’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 211 Union St., Simcoe, followed by a reception. Celebrant Father Lucio Couto. Those wishing to donate in memory of Trudy are asked to consider Juravinski Hospital and Cancer Centre Foundation.  Online condolences at www.baldockfuneralhome.com