Our beloved mother/močiutė passed away, just shy of her hundredth birthday, in her sleep at Labdara Lithuanian Nursing Home, Toronto. She was born in Joniskelis, Lithuania where she spent her formative years on the family estate. She was predeceased by her husband Alfonsas, sister Elvyra, parents Jonas and Olga Murnikas. She is grieved by her son Algis (Nijole), grandchildren Saulius (Catalina), Vaida (Alex), Renata (Robert) and great grandchildren Finnian, Teagan, Arthur and Oliver. She is survived by her sister Vilma Gaputis, nephews Andrius (Kristina) and Paul. She leaves behind relatives in Lithuania and Latvia.

With the eastern front nearing in WW2 Elze, her sister Vilma and mother fled west and ended up in the American occupied zone in Germany after the war ended. While living in a Displaced Persons camp along with other refugees, she worked as a nurse’s aide in a local hospital. In 1948 she left Germany for the distant shores of Canada, landing in Halifax (Pier 21) and engaging in a work contract at Whitby Psychiatric Hospital where she worked as a nurse’s aide. Having completed her contract she moved to Toronto to join other Lithuanian emigres. Joined by her sister and mother, she was fortunate to land her first job with MacGregor socks. She retired from the Finance Department of CP Express, for whom she worked many enjoyable years.

Elze was an avid and dedicated supporter of the Lithuanian Scout movement and for many decades participated at many camps, events and associated fund raising activities. She also was an active member of her parish, always helping out with biannual bazaars. In her retirement years, she and fellow retirees traveled the world, visiting many countries, too numerous to list. Elzė’s mushroom shaped cookies were in demand and with pleasure she supplied many a festivity, wedding and family occasion.

She was an avid Raptors fan and never missed watching a game.

Until about 5 months ago, she lived alone in her condo with community and family support.

The family is very appreciative of the loving care provided by the staff of the Labdara Lithuanian Nursing Home.

A Visitation will be held at the Lithuanian Church of the Resurrection, 5 Resurrection Road, Toronto on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at 10 am and Funeral Mass will follow at 11am. Private interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, Elzė’s wish was for donations to the scout camp outside of Huntsville ON. Donations may be directed to Romuva Inc. care of 21-49th St. N., Wasaga Beach, ON, L9Z 1Y1. On-line condolences may be made at www.turnerporter.ca

Ilsėkis Ramybėje!