Mary Katie (Schmidt) Thiessen passed away peacefully in Calgary, Alberta, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the age of 94 years, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and love.

She was born on November 9, 1931, in La Glace, Alberta, and spent most of her life in Grande Prairie, Alberta, before moving to Airdrie, Alberta, at 85 years old to be closer to immediate family.

Mary was the beloved spouse of Jacob (Jake) Nick Thiessen, with whom she shared 70 meaningful years of marriage. Together they built a life centered on family, raising their children while enjoying time spent traveling, curling, skiing, camping, boating, and playing games and cards.

She was predeceased by her parents, Peter John and Margaret (Unger) Schmidt, both of whom were born in Siberia. Mary was the eldest and last surviving member of a close-knit group of siblings known as the “Big Six.” Mary is now reunited in Heaven with her brothers and sisters, Flora, Dave, Helen, John, and Henry.

Mary’s early years included schooling in Bighorn and La Glace, though she often said her greatest education came from “the school of real life,” rooted in farming, hard work, and strong Christian values. Her faith in Jesus Christ was central to her life, guiding her in marriage, motherhood, and daily living. She spoke English, Low German, and some High German.

She dedicated many years to her family as a devoted wife and mother, raising her sons, Wayne and Brian. She then returned to the workforce, contributing to retail grocery, to ladies’ fashion, and as a postal worker. Mary was known for her loyalty, strong work ethic, and deep commitment to those she loved.

Mary had a special gift for hospitality. She was an exceptional cook who brought people together through amazing meals, especially during traditional Christian holidays, family gatherings, and church events. Her kitchen was always filled with warmth, from hearty meals to a wide variety of baking, like her famous strawberry jam and borscht. She also took pride in her appearance, always dressing elegantly with carefully coordinated outfits and jewelry, and she wore her beautiful red hair proudly, well into her later years.

She will be lovingly remembered and missed by her husband, Jake; her two sons, Wayne (Ellen) and Brian (Barb), along with six grandchildren: Erin (Chris) Bender, Melanie (Todd) Hector, Robert (Caitlin) Thiessen, Daniel (Kate) Thiessen, Amanda Thiessen, and Josiah Thiessen; and her six cherished great-grandchildren: Reece, Nolan, and Nora Hector, Maia and Ayden Bender, and Owen Cheeseman, each of whom held a very special place in her heart.

Mary was known for her welcoming and gracious nature as well as a positive attitude, even through her final days. She extended kindness not only to family but also to friends of her children and grandchildren, making everyone feel at home. Her warmth, faith in Jesus Christ, and strength leave a legacy for all who knew her, an inspiration to us all.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at the Grande Prairie Alliance Church (15502-102 St), followed by a luncheon.

For those who cannot attend the service in person, it will be livestreamed. The link will be available a few minutes before the service.

In honour of Mary, memorial donations may be made to Peace River Bible Institute (https://www.prbi.edu/).

While every effort is made to ensure a smooth livestream, technical or broadcast issues may occasionally occur beyond the control of Oliver’s Funeral Home.