Obituary of Vivian Mae Quaschnick (Fortna)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, on October 13, 2023, at the age of 77 years. Vivian passed away at the Red Deer Regional Hospital surrounded by her family.

Vivian was born on September 8, 1946, in Hanna Alberta to Harold and Mae Fortna. She was the eldest of four children.

She married Rod Quaschnick in 1966 and they welcomed three children: Shannon (October 1969), Jason (August 1973), and Ryan (June 1975).  They lived in Hanna until 1984 when they moved to Vivian’s paternal grandfather (Jacob Fortna’s) homestead. Vivian lived here on the family homestead until her passing.

She was a very crafty person; painting, drawing, crocheting, knitting and any other craft she could get her hands on. But her passion was sewing. Vivian made the most beautiful quilts and runners. If you were lucky enough to be gifted with one of her quilts you were in for a real work of art.

Vivian loved baking and it wasn’t unusual for her to show up on your doorstep with banana bread, rhubarb cake or some cookies.

Nana loved spoiling her grandchildren with baking. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren always put a huge smile on her face.

Vivian was predeceased by her husband Rod, infant son, father Harold, and mother Mae.

She will be greatly missed by her children: Shannon (Blake) Gross, Jason (Carrie) Quaschnick, Ryan (Crystal) Quaschnick; grandchildren: Cody (Alyssa) Gross, Kyle (Cassie) Gross, Jaxon Quaschnick, Ava Quaschnick; great grandchildren: Meredith, Calvin, and Estelle Gross, and Alice, Luka and Colt Gross. Also left to mourn are her siblings: Ed (Jean) Fortna, Doug (Ruth) Fortna, Marjorie (Doug) McKay; brother-in law Merle (Linda) Quaschnick; numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.

Our family would like to thank Doctor Wendy Fortna, the doctors and nurses at the Red Deer Regional Hospital, and the ambulance staff for their excellent care and compassion she received.

With respect to the families’ wishes, a private family burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers and if desired, donations are gratefully accepted to the Heart and Stroke Foundation,100-119 14 Street NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 1Z6.

Hanna Funeral Services has been entrusted with the care and arrangements, 403-854-5956. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.hannafuneral.ca.