Obituary of Lena Schnell

Lena Schnell of Edmonton, formerly of Camrose, passed away on May 11, 2015. Our memories of our dear 98 year old Mother, Ama and friend will be cherished. She was born and raised in rural Saskatchewan, married Nathan and on his return from World War II, they lived, worked and raised their family in Camrose. Following her marriage to Paul, she continued to live in Camrose and later moved to Edmonton. Lena's work revolved around numbers as she did books for the Creamery, Camrose Transfer, the Norseman and the United Church, and her life was around her family and friends, the UCW and the OORP. She was a great cook and could sew anything. A true Icelander, she loved rice pudding, skyr and vinaterta, but not lamb. 'Tired' was a swear word, 'Just Do It!' her passion, 'Pay it and forget it' her motto. She didn't like old things, but embraced the new with her Kindle, email and iPad. Her amazing memories included driving the horses to the one room school, first hearing a radio, using a phone and watching television, and being included in family adventures and stories. She had a wonderful life and was such a strong personality. She encouraged us to follow our dreams. Lena is survived by her children: Linda (Frank) Reid of Edmonton, Anita (Ole) Jensen of Leduc and Kent Worden (Emelyn) of Richmond, BC; eight grandchildren: Darrell (Chelsey), Angela, Bradley (Colleen) and Brenda (Barrie); Terry (Laurie) and Shelley (Jon); Nathan and Selena and sixteen great-grandchildren: Madeline, Olivia, Sloan and Charlotte; Carlon, Noah and Iain; Avery, Oakley, Heath and Rio; Terynn, Tyler and Jaden; Carter and Brett. She is also survived by her sister Elin Jackson of Burnaby, brother Harold (Queade) of North Battleford SK and brother Wayne (Fina) of Foam Lake, SK. Left as well are step children Linda (Nick) Parotta and Rob Schnell, both of Edmonton, and their families. Lena was predeceased by her parents, first husband Nathan Worden, second husband Paul Schnell, siblings Eddie, Andy, Thelma, Arni, Anna and John. A Funeral Service was held at 11:00 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2015 from the Camrose United Church. Inurnment has taken place in the Camrose Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, or to the Camrose United Church.