Obituaries
Koller (nee Geschwandtner), Trudy Elizabeth
April 30, 2024
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Trudy Elizabeth Koller (nee Geschwandtner), late of Regina, SK on April 30, 2024 at the age of 80 years. Trudy was born in Wirballen, Lithuania on May 15, 1943. During the Russian Invasion of World War 2, her family first fled to Poland and then to Germany. They then immigrated to Canada (Regina) in 1951 when she was only 9 years old.
Trudy was predeceased by her parents Frank and Mathilda Geschwandtner, brothers Herbert and Erwin, and son Jarret Desjarlais. Left to cherish her memory is her brother Bruno (Vicki) Geschwandtner; her daughters Anita (Peter) Hopfauf, Leana (Murray) Gettle, and Tamara (Ryan) Gudmundson; granddaughter Carly (Mike) Sliva, grandson Chad (Ara Cheers) Hopfauf; great-grandchildren Oliver and Roman Cheers-Hopfauf and Lainey Sliva; as well as a large extended family and many dear friends.
Trudy was a strong, courageous and independent woman who had various jobs over the years. She was a stay at home mom, a hairdresser, a model, a hostess at the Tiki Room and a loss prevention officer. She worked at Guys and Dolls Billiards where all the young people called her “Mom”, and finally, for many years in Food and Beverage at the University of Regina where she retired at the age of 65.
Trudy was very social and loved by many, she lit up a room with her sparkly smile, witty sense of humor and her contagious laugh. She was a huge country music fan and attended The Big Valley Jamboree in Craven for several years, she would always do her best to be first in line at the gates to get “her spot”. She loved decorating her site and enjoying the shows with her friends and “Craven Family”. She loved to travel and did so throughout her career at the U of R as well as in retirement. Trudy became a member of The Tartan Army, Johnny Reid’s fan club, and she travelled across Canada with her friends from the fan club to watch Johnny perform, and of course always made sure to have a meet and greet with Johnny himself.
Over the years Trudy volunteered in many different ways with the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan from making cabbage rolls for Christmas supper to helping out at various fundraisers.
In 2017 Trudy was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she fought a good fight with the same strength and courage she always had and even in her final days, would still sing along to her favorite country songs.
The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff in the South and North Wing of Parkside Special Care Home.
At Trudy’s request, there will be no service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Saskatchewan or the Schizophrenia Society of Saskatchewan.
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Condolences
Cindy Grieve
Winnipeg Manitoba Canada
My condolences to family and friends. I met Trudy in 2009 at Johnny Reid concert. We became great friends. We enjoyed traveling together. We went to CCMA's in Edmonton and Newfoundland to see Johnny. I will miss you my friend.
Gary ( Jag ) Jijian
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
To all of Trudy’s family. I was one of the large Craven party group and Pump friends. Trudy was a beautiful fun loving lady. She and Deana were always a riot and the party was on. They painted up my buddy with make up, one day when he over indulged! Trudy hated my 4-5 inch craven moustache, so I told her it was hers Monday Morning. At 9:00 Monday am a knock on my camper door, I stuck my head out and snip snip, off went a CHEERING Trudy with my stash. It was like she won the lottery. 2 weeks later at Pump, she had her album done to show all. I was in shock but honoured — my stash was on the 1st page. Lots of great times and memories thru the years with an awesome lady. My thoughts and prayers with you all. Sincere condolences. Jag
Paula Belanger
Regina SK Canada
Leana, I'm very sorry to hear about your mom. I remember the stories you would always share about her when we both worked together at SaskTel. She was a strong woman, so full of vitality. I remember her from the U of R Lab cafe as well. Everyone loved Trudy's Subs. My deepest condolences to you and your family.
Bev Rushworth
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
I was very sad to hear of Trudy’s passing. I have many fond memories of her through the years. She was a very special person. Condolences to the Family
Della Allen
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
To the Family of Trudy, So very sorry to hear of Trudy's passing away. The photo of her is exactly how I remember her - great photo. I worked at the University of Regina and always enjoyed seeing Trudy when I picked up food and coffee. Trudy was always so friendly and kind; her smile and laugh always made me smile and laugh. The world could use more people like her! Please know you are all in my thoughts, Della Allen (University of Regina)
Carmen Kessel
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
Anita and Peter, and all of Trudy’s family. My heartfelt condolences to you all. I loved Trudy’s sense of humour and the big smile she always had. She truly loved life. Thoughts and Prayers to you all. ❤️
Renu Kapoor
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
Thinking of u Anita. Our thoughts and prayers are with u. So sorry for the loss 🙏🏼
Margaret Schaffer
Regina Sask Canada
We are thinking of you during this difficult time. We extend our sincere sympathies to you Anita and Peter and your family. Max and Margaret Schaffer.
Ray Desjarlais
Opaskwayak Manitoba Canada
Condolences and prayers out to the family. You will be missed Aunty. Much luv, Turk
Lester Turcotte
Regina Saskatchewan Canada
To all of Trudy's family, so sorry to hear of the passing of Trudy she was always happy to see you. I will always remember her smile. Please accept our sincerest condolences and may she rest in eternal peace. From the Turcotte family.
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