In Celebration of

Evelyne Pelz

December 28, 1928 - November 17, 2021

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Evelyne on November 17th, 2021. Predeceased by her husband Walter. Loving mother to her son David (Margaret) and her daughter Deborah (Brian). Proud grandmother to Michael, Erin, Julia and Trevor and great grandmother to Emmie Gray and Reece Austin Boland.

Born in East Berlin Germany as an only child of a Jewish father and non-Jewish mother, she endured the childhood trauma of Nazi incursion and escaped to England separated from her imprisoned father and impoverished mother. She arrived in Toronto Canada as a new bride to Walter in the winter of 1950, bravely leaving all family and friends behind in England. Even as a child Evelyne learned how to talk her way out of the English farm family she disliked, to a family she preferred. Independence and quick friendships became more than a survival mode – it was the way she led her new life in Canada. Strong willed, opinionated and always planning parties or get-togethers, her social life enriched her life and all those included in it. Most of all , she loved spending time with her family and always looked forward to the next gathering before the last one ended, taking centre stage where the stories, dessert and coffee were always “old” and “reliable”.

A private family service will be held at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel. For those who wish donations may be made in memory of Evelyne to Diabetes Canada.

To watch this service via Livestream, please use the following link:
https://youtu.be/tWVQ_LpIWJw

Guestbook

(5 of 16)

Vivian Shapiro (Friend and daughter of good friend Ursula)

Entered November 23, 2021 from Toronto

Evelyne was an incredible source of fun and a positive light in the life of the Leinung family for so many years. The Pelzes were such good friends and travelling companions to my mom and dad Ursula and John Leinung, My sister and I had the privilege of getting to know both Walter and Evelyne and witness the joy, love, support, friendship, laughs and good times they provided. I know that the four friends are now reunited and I’m sure Evelyne is planning the Reunion Event as I write! Love you Evelyne!

Karen Connort (Friend of my mothers)

Entered November 23, 2021 from Toronto

Dear David, Debby, and Families,
I’m so saddened by the news of Evelyne’s passing.
I was meant to have a visit with her the week she became ill.
She was a wonderful friend to my Mom, Ursula Leinung.
My Mom would often tell me that she loved that Evelyne would phone her in the early morning and fill her in on all the latest facts about their friends.
She was always the first to plan a special lunch for my Moms birthday before we even planned anything for our Mom.
She would always have the tastiest of baked goods and a selected gathering to celebrate her. My Mom used to say she had the best parties.
Evelyne continued to communicate with me when my Mom was no longer able to and would visit my Mom, always bringing German treats that they both loved.
I enjoyed receiving emails from Evelyne with updates, family pictures or jokes she shared with me. She amazed me with her computer skills.
I loved hearing her many interesting stories from the past and listening to her talk proudly about her family.
I will miss her dearly.

Karen Connort

Sue Walsh (Friend)

Entered November 23, 2021

Evelyne was part of my life since my parents Kitty & Hans Schafer came to Toronto in '89. Evelyne and Walter were an amazing couple full of life and energy. I loved Walter's intelligence and kindness & "home movies" at every occasion and Evelyne's ability to party at the drop of a hat.
She was strong and resilient and when Walter passed she was determined to make a new life. Her friendship with my Mother was incredible - they spoke daily and shared all life's ups and downs. We lunched and visited often and when my Mother was bedridden and couldn't go out any more Evelyne would "hop in the car" and come for lunch or a visit - often bringing a European specialty!. She was always cheerful and between the two of them there were many tears of laughter.
Her stories and tea parties are legendary as are her outings- whether to the movies, the Mall or the hairdresser. She was the "rock" of the building - meeting and inviting and making so many friends. I loved her stories, her laughter, her delight in her growing family and pride in their accomplishments - and of course stories of Sephira the cat.
She was a great email correspondent and I was just planning on emailing how we would celebrate her birthday in December when I heard the news. I will miss her terribly as well - she had strong opinions and asked a million questions but for me she truly cared and she was a link to my family and another era .
I wish all of you & Margaret too -much strength to get through this difficult time.
May you get to the place where you only enjoy wonderful memories!
Love Susi

Amnon Pelz (A admiring nephew of the beloved aunt)

Entered November 25, 2021 from Oranit

I first met my aunt from Toronto in 1976 when I was invited by them to visit before I was drafted into the IDF.I was immediately fascinated by the amount of love radiating from her bright face. Despite the age differences I always felt the young spirit blowing in every email and phone call.
Her memory will be remembered forever as the one who gave us optimism and joy of life