Obituary of Simone Kuckartz

It is with sadness in our hearts, but joy for a life well lived, the family of Simone Kuckartz (Bertrand) announces her passing at the age of 100. Simone died peacefully surrounded by family on September 18, 2023 at the Hospice at Glengarda in Saskatoon, SK. Simone was born in Lafleche, SK on November 20, 1922. She was the first person to be baptized in Ste Radegonde R.C. Church in Lafleche on December 24, 1922. Simone’s faith was very strong and played a significant role throughout her life. Simone was always a hard worker. She left school in grade six so that she could help with her family’s farm work. On September 14, 1943, she married Maynard Kuckartz and followed him to Kingston, ON where he was stationed in the army. Following Maynard’s army discharge Simone and her husband moved back to the family farm near Lafleche. Together Simone and Maynard raised 13 children who were all taught to share in the ongoing responsibility and duties of family and farm life. Simone always made time for extended family and friends. Community life was also important and Simone and Maynard loved the community gatherings joining in the numerous dances, surprise parties, card parties and potlucks. In 1972, Simone joined the Catholic Women’s League in Lafleche, devoting her time and service participating in meetings and many conventions. In 1982, Simone and Maynard retired from their farm life and moved to a new home in the town of Lafleche. Simone enjoyed retirement and continued to cook, bake, and help with many church and community events. Bowling was a favourite passion in her life. She started bowling occasionally in 1970, and once retired, she and Maynard joined a Senior’s Bowling Team in Gravelbourg, winning many trophies over the years. Indeed, Simone continued to bowl right up to the amazing age of 99! Rain or snow never stopped her from attending weekly bowling. Following Maynard’s death in 2006, Simone showed her strength and resilience by creating a new chapter in her life. In 2008, Simone moved to Saskatoon where she lived with her daughter Helen. In 2011, she decided on an assisted living arrangement and moved to Columbian Manor (a facility funded by the Knights of Columbus). At the Manor, she made new friends and embraced all activities including attending daily Mass, joining the choir, participating in festive celebrations, playing board games, card games and bingo. She even joined a senior’s team at the bowling alley across the street from the Manor. Simone enjoyed helping any resident who needed assistance. Her energy never seemed to cease and she was loved and admired by all. Simone will always be remembered for her strong Christian beliefs, her keen sense of humour and her love for family and large family gatherings. Simone was predeceased by her husband Maynard; two daughters Marie-Anne and Madeleine; her parents and four of her siblings; as well as four grandchildren. Left to mourn are her sister Marie (Abbotsford, BC), and sister-in-law Elva (Abbotsford, BC) as well as her 11 children: Diane (Vern) Bowden, AB, Gerard (Sherril) Mississauga, ON, Bernard (Paulette) Lafleche, SK, Richard (Sonja) Saskatoon SK, Rose-Anna (Al) Assiniboia, SK, Leonard (Judy) Lafleche, SK, Pauline (Louis) Kelowna, BC, Edward (Robin) Saskatoon, SK, Helen (Don) Saskatoon SK, Bernadette (Glen) Saskatoon, SK, Vernard (Bev) Calgary, AB; 32 grandchildren, 59 great-grandchildren, and 18 great-great-grandchildren. Simone worked hard, played hard, lived long and laughed much. We shall all miss her. Funeral Mass celebrated Friday, September 29, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. in Ste Radegonde R.C. Church in Lafleche, SK, with live streaming. Interment following the service in the Lafleche R.C Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to K.C. Charities Inc. (Columbian Manor) or Hospice at Glengarda.  Arrangements entrusted to Piche-Hawkins-Grondin Chapels, Gravelbourg, SK.