Rubina "Rubie" Lubow Backlin
June 12th, 2013
22 Apr 1922 – Wolyn, Poland
12 Jun 2013 - Calgary, AB
Passed away June 12, 2013 at the age of 91. Survived by her son Sam; daughter-in-law Donna Phillips; grand-daughters Monique and Tasha; by sisters Katie Shistowski and Nellie Ellchuk in Winnipeg; and a large extended family. Rubie lived a long and full life. Born in Poland, she was one of six sisters in the Swinarchuk family who immigrated in 1929 to farm near Elphinstone MB. Despite her father's hopes, she was not a farm girl. She left for nursing school at Selkirk, MB, then joined the Army during WWII which brought her to Calgary where she served as a clerk at Mewata Armoury. After the war, she trained as a secretary at Henderson business college, then briefly worked at the Calgary Associate Clinic and then for 21 years devotedly at the Calgary General Hospital in the Physical Medicine and Rehab Dept. Working and raising a family on her own before it was commonplace, Rubie valued her independence and self-sufficiency. At 60 she retired, and moved back to Sandy Lake, MB where she spent twenty very happy years gardening and being close to her sisters and extended family. At 81 she returned to Calgary where she spent the last ten years close to her immediate family but living independently till the end. We will miss her gardening advice, her sense of humor and her love. An enormous debt of gratitude is owed to Dr. Cathy Heimbach for all the help and support she provided Rubie over the years. Thanks also to the caring physicians, nurses and staff at the Rockyview who were so helpful. Heartfelt thanks also go to the wonderful staff at Wentworth Manor and AHS home care staff, who helped Rubie remain independent for so long - this was very important to her. As per her request, a private family service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Rubie may be made to the charity of your choice.Messages:
Sam, Donna & girls Losing a loved one is a very heavy burden to carry. We are so sorry to hear of Aunty Rubie's passing. Our family and Nellie pass our love and condolences to you during this difficult time, and ask our Lord for peace and strength as you face the future. We enjoyed Aunty Rubie very much - her energy, humour, independent spirit, and all the love she showed to all of us.
Dear Sam, May I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of your mother Rubie. I remember you both well with great fondness during your days at my Peter Pan Kindergarten in Capital Hill - some 50 years ago! Will say a few prayers for you both. Best wishes for you in the years ahead. Helene McCorquindale ( Mrs Mac).