Lilly Sommerfeld

Dear Mr and Mrs Stalts and Helga, Linda and Larissa,
My sister Cindy was just at the reunion for the Belfast Elementary School - that in itself seems so very long ago and now she's sent me the news of Lilly's passing. I'm very sorry to hear that Lilly's left at such a young age. We used to make tents on our front doorsteps in the summer and play with dolls there.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Linda, Helga, and Families,

We are deeply sorry to hear of the sudden passing of your sister Lil. May you find peace and rest in the arms of Jesus, and may He be your comfort and strength in this difficult time. Words, however kind, can't mend your heartache. But those who care and share your loss wish you comfort and peace of mind. May you find strength in the love of family and in the warm embrace of friends.

With love and prayers,

Marcie and Bob

Dear Larissa, dear friends.

It has been over a week since Lil's passing - a day hasn't gone by that I haven't thought of you all, you especially Larissa. I adored your Lil, your mom. I loved her exacting search for meaning, her insistance that there was a greater wisdom to be explored and ultimately, to be found. I have loved knowing that Lil is in the world; it breaks my heart that she is no longer with us in body. But I do believe, without a shadow of a doubt, that she lives on - big and bright and smiling.

You Larissa were her light; how she loved to talk about you, recount your latest successes, your insights. I met Lil and Linda and Janis a few months ago in Calgary, and the conversation so quickly turned to you. Lil's eyes and face shone.

I cannot imagine your pain, but dear Larissa, I do know that you are your mother's daughter and that you will find the strength to keep forging and becoming.

And Janis, Linda - my thoughts are with you. And my heart breaks for you.

with love, and tears,

Doris

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Stalts, Helga, Linda, and Larissa,

It is with tremendous shock and sorrow that we hear of Lilly's passing and extend our most heartfelt condolences to you all.

Larissa, we have never met, but my family was a neighbour to your mom and aunts in childhood and we often played together.

We are all so sad for your loss.

Cherry DeJager (Charlene Vasseur) and Family

Dear Janis and your family,
I was fortunate to be able to work with Lil at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre. Her gentle, kind way helped me at a time when I needed it most.
She will be missed.

Dear Larissa and Family: I actually just met Lil a few weeks ago at a dinner party held by a mutual friend, Sandra Sweet. It was one of those great evenings where a group of women sit around, share our life stories, drink a lot of wine, and laugh like crazy. Your Mom was enormously FUN !!!! -- truly one of those wonderful people you like the instant you meet them. At the end of the evening we all promised we would get together again soon, but it was not to be. When I think of Lil, she will remind me how precious life is, what a gift it is, and how much joy one person can bring into it. Your Mom was like this candle, Larissa -- she was truly a spark of joy and light. I knew her only briefly, but that is how I'll remember her: laughing smiling and sharing her joy. I wish I could have one more dinner with her and I'm sure you do too. She told us several times how proud she was of you, and what a wonderful woman you had grown up to be. So God Bless You and remember to shine for others like your Mom did. Peace and blessings ....

Dear Larissa
I'm so sorry to read about your mother's passing. I haven't seen you or your mother since you were in Guides, so many years ago. But I do remember her smile and what a wonderful mother she was to you. You are in my thoughts and prayers, at this difficult time.

It is with great sadness that I learned of Lills passing. She was always very kind to me, and I enjoyed working with her. Some 20 years ago she organized a department lunch at a nice resturant and some how she sweet talked the department head, Dr. Cormac into some how staying all afternoon, drinking wine and eating desert. She knew how to open doors with just a smile and every one enjoyed working with her.
take care
Leo Moriarity
Machine shop
Tom baker Cancer Centre

Dear Tante Erna, Onkel Janis and girls,
Memories of times we spent with you in your home in my growing-up years were some of the very best I have. I was deeply saddened to hear of Lilly's sudden passing. I remember her energy and zest for life. May God keep you very close to His heart. And may your memories comfort you.

Love and blessings to you,

Cornelia

Dear Larissa, Janis, Linda, Mr. & Mrs. Stalts,
I was so sorry to hear of Lil's passing. I hadn't seen her for years but always remember her friendly demeanor, kindness, and vibrant personality. I hope your memories of her help to ease the sorrow over the coming days and weeks. My heart and prayers go out for you, your families, and everyone who knew and loved Lil during this very difficult time.

Dear Larissa,
It is with great sorrow that I read of your mother's passing. I want you to know that it has always been evident that your mom nurtured your spirit and all those around her. I truly enjoyed having her at our games and as a friend. She has left us a tremendous gift - you. May you always reflect her legacy. She will be missed.

Dear Larissa, Mr. and Mrs. Stalts, Linda, and Janis and families,
Reinhard and I were very saddened to hear of Lil's death. We have such fond thoughts of you from our Calgary days. Larissa, although we never did meet you, we remember seeing your mom in Banff when she was expecting you. She was so happy! We pray that the Lord will give you all His comfort and strength as you mourn Lil's absence in your lives.

I was deeply saddened to hear of Lilly's sudden passing. I knew her years ago along with her two lovely sisters. My heart goes out to all of you. It's not easy losing someone you love. May your memories bring comfort and joy along with the tears. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Dear Larissa and Family,
It is with great sadness that I share my thoughts of Lil during this difficult time. It was just a few short weeks ago that Lil joined us for a small dinner party at my house. It was one of those wonderful evenings where a group of women get together to share stories of our lives, our aspirations and our future plans, and laugh out loud. And as always, Lil was full of joy when she told us of Larissa's latest accomplishments. Always humble, Lil would not steal any of Larissa's thunder saying, "It's all her."

Although I worked with Lil at Bethany for over five years, it was in the last 18 months that Lil and I really connected. We were both embarking on our consulting careers at the same time and we supported each other over coffee and lunch conversations sharing advice and experiences. All the while, we were building a friendship that has been cut far too short. There was still so much about Lil that I wanted to know, but reading through these entries has given me a better understanding of how wonderful she really was and the legacy of love, compassion and tolerance she is leaving behind.

Although I have never had the honour of meeting you, Larissa, I feel as though I got to know you a bit through your mother's eyes. One could not help but feel the endless love she had for you in her every word and gesture.

Lil taught me so much about enjoying life and reminded me that nothing is accomplished without passion. I will miss her dearly.

Ahh Lil, I will miss you. Everyone that ever met you will miss you - I am sure of it.
Thank you for every precious moment.

Thank you for- our years of working together at the Calgary Health Region, our 'anything is possible- lets start our own business' planning sessions over lunches, your stories about motherhood, womenhood and your undying love for Larissa (and for being an amazing example of what it really means to be a mother), our honest talks about life and love, your laugh, your encouragement, unconditional support, unfailing friendship and contagious enthusiasm for life.

You inspired me so much and in so many ways I cannot list them all here...

In honour of your memory, I will strive to touch more people's lives and to do everything I can to live more fully - with an open heart, a curious mind, a fierce passionate spirit, and a kind authentic way of being...just as you taught us all to live.

You made the world a better place.

And Larissa...to say that your mom loved you is a huge understatement. You were at the very centre of her being, and I know that she will remain at your core forever.

Her love for you is so deep that nothing can stop it ...not even this.

May you find a way to carry on your connection with your mom into the years ahead. May her love continue to 'show up' in magical ways and care for you when/how you need it most...whether it be by a butterfly paying you a visit, a song playing on the radio with just the right message, or a friend calling at the perfect moment...
I know her love for you knows no end.

love and blessings to you and to everyone who adored your beautiful mother...

To the Stalts Family,
My sincere sympathy in your great loss.
May God's comfort be with you all and may you be encouraged, that many of your old friends are praying for you.
Christel Taylor [Gutzmann]

Dear Larissa:
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Stalts:
We share in your deep sorrow on the passing of Lil, your dear mother, and your precious daughter. Words are never enough in times like these. However, please know that we are praying for you. Tomorrow (the day of the funeral), will be one of the most difficult days you will face. However, may you feel the strong arms of God carry you, and the presence of His Holy Spirit comfort you. Release the tears, embrace each other and cherish the memories of Lil. Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the Life. May this hope strengthen you at this time.
With deepest sympathies and sincere compassion,
Wayne & Regina (nee Harder) Hansen

I will miss you Lil...I will miss our years of working together at the Calgary Health Region, our 'anything is possible...lets start our own business' planning sessions,our honest talks about life, our laughing, your ceaseless encouragement and mentorship, unconditional friendship,inspiring energy and vitality....You were always so generous. You would talk often about what you felt that I taught you...but really it was you who taught me, and so many others, so much along your life's journey.

I commit to living on in your memory the very best that I can- with a wide open heart, a curious mind, a fierce passionate spirit and a kind authentic way of being.

You touched us all...I wish I knew how to say thank you...

Larissa...you were and will always be the centre, the very core of your mother, and no doubt, she will continue to be at your core. You were her best friend, her greatest inspiration and the source of her deepest joy. I never spent 5 minutes with your mom without her telling me a story about your latest adventure, dream or aspiration.
To say she loved you is an understatement. In her eyes, and in mine, you are capable of anything!

May you find your own way to stay connected with your mom in the years to come and may this connection bring you strength. Nothing could stop your her love for you...not even this.
I hope that she shows up in moments when you need her..in a butterfly paying you a visit, or a song playing on the radio or a friend who calls just at the right moment...

Lil- thank you for it all.
You made this world a better place.

love you.

blessings to everyone who loves you still....

amy

My very deepest sympathies to Larissa and all of Lil's family. Lil & I worked for many years together at the Cancer Center. Lil was always an inspiration- cheerful, caring, and compassionate. I always admired her for her many achievements and all the goals she set and accomplished. I shall remember her cheerful ways and her joy for life. I know you will remember many cherished and happy moments that you shared with her. Even though Lil was taken from us too soon,I believe she lived life to the fullest every single day.

With deepest sympathy and caring thoughts as you honor a treasured life. Lil has been such a wonderful neighbour. She's caring, kind and thoughtful. Ocean and Alaina misses their "Aunty Lil" very much for they always looked forward to visiting with her in the back yard. Our family will miss her dearly.

To Larissa and Family

It was with such great sadness that we learned of Lil’s passing last week. She was a dear friend and we look back with great fondness on all the times we spent together with Lil and Larissa when we lived in Calgary. After 23 years of friendship it was so very hard to receive word of the passing of not just a friend, but someone still so young and vital and full of energy. Our memories of Lil are ones filled with such joy as she had such an infectious, positive outlook on life and always had a smile on her face. Lil had such an adventurous spirit as well and was always looking for something new to try or somewhere new to go and we could always count on Lil to come up with something new and fun to get out and enjoy together. The memories we cherish most fondly though are the many quiet evenings we spent with her at the house in Edgemont, talking and laughing late into the night, listening to music and snacking on some new treat she’d just discovered and wanted to share with us. It was only months ago that we last saw Lil as we met her down on Robson Street for supper at the end of her conference. We had a great visit, laughing and chatting, reminiscing and catching up on each other's lives. Our last image of Lil was her great smile as she waved one last time and then turned and disappeared into the crowd on her way back to her hotel. Our hearts go out to her family and in particular to Larissa who we’ve known since she was a baby. Lil was a very devoted mother and she and Larissa shared such a special bond with each other. She will truly be missed and will always remain in our hearts.

Larissa, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers and we are so deeply saddened by your loss. If you ever come out to Vancouver, please be sure to get in touch with us as we’d love to see you again.

My sympathies are with you, I worked with Lil at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and she was an inspiration to all of us. Her compassion with the patients and her kind and helpful way with her coworkers was an example for excellence in her profession. She will be greatly missed.

Dear Stalts family,and Larissa
My thoughts go out to you, all, at this difficult time. Even though i havn't seen Lilly since the "German Church Jugend Days....", i still remembered how vibrant and full of life Lilly was. I can only imagine how sad this is for you Larissa as I have a daughter who is also 24.
I wish you the peace and joy in knowing that you had a wonderful Mom who taught you all the wonderful things that only she could teach you.
Having lost my Mom in /08, i do uderstand.
All the best to the loved ones left behind.
(This also goes for my sisters as well, we were the Rozniak sisters from Kelowna.....Eve(Calgary)Anna(kelowna) and Loretta Rozniak (Germany)
Sincerely
Anna Campbell (kelowna)

My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of such sadness.
I worked with Lil at Bethany as part of the OD department and learned so much from her both professionally and personally. She helped to instill in me a passion for organization development work that I will carry with me forever.
I will miss her smiles, her fun spirit and the long chats we had.

Larissa and Family,
Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Tanya Hansen and Family

We were so sad to learn of Lil's passing. She was always so positive and friendly. Her welcoming wave and beautiful smile as we were coming or going added a nice feeling to the neighbourhood. Her beautiful yard added to our enjoyment of living close by. We will miss her. Terrie and Don Skulsky

I was so very saddened to hear of Lil's untimely passing. I worked with Lil at Bethany and was always struck by her zest and energy and her positive outlook and perpetual smile. My sincere condolences to Lil's family at this difficult time. May your memories be a comfort.

To Lil's family,

My heart goes out to all of you. In time, may your heart only know happiness and may your sorrows find a new path of joy. Lil would expect that from all of us.

I knew Lil while working together at Calgary Health Region and couldn't help but be drawn in by her endearing smile, thoughtul insights and passionate approach to all she did. She shared fond stories of her life experiences and never stopped dreaming of exciting new things to come - for both herself and Larissa. I remember when she decided to move on to Calgary Lab Services and joined our large group of well wishers for a celebration of her new opportunity. It was the graceful way she articulated her appreciation and encouraged all of us to keep growing and reaching for our dreams that I cannot forget. Indeed, I know she has left a lasting impression on everyone she met and her memory will continue on in all of us.

I was extremely moved and saddened hearing of Lilly's passing. I knew Lilly many years ago as a bright bubbly teenager ... my thoughts and prayers go out to the loving family and all those mourning the loss of Lilly.
Jenny Mueller-Garbutt

Phil and Linda:
My sister Ev informed me of the sad news. My sincere condolences. Your former nachbar.

Lily was a beautiful person inside and out. She was talented and just had that contagious zest for life. When our family was invited over to the Stalts house she made the visit fun and memorable for us "kids". She will be truly missed!

We were so shocked and saddened to hear about Lilly's passing. She always had a special smile for us whenever we saw her and her piano playing was truly amazing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.

I am grieving with you all as you suffer the loss of one so dearly loved. Lil was a beautiful woman, and I have so many memories of her great laugh, sense of humour, and cheerful personality. Wish I could be there with you. May God carry you at this time, in His arms of love, Lori Palmer

Dear Linda, Phil, Nathan & Chantal:
So sorry to hear of the loss of your sister, sister-in-law, aunt. We're thinking of you at this difficult time. May time bring you some comfort.
Sincerely, Marnie, Barrie & Josh Regan

Sincere condolences from The Deines family living first of all in the duplex next door and later, behind Lilly's home in Belfast when Lilly was very young. We are spread out now, with Kerrie, Keith and Diana living on Vancouver Island and Steve still in Calgary. It's been many many years since we saw Lilly but our thoughts go out to you all at this sad time.

My heartfelt condolences to you all, Tante Erna, Onkel Janis, Helga and Linda, and lovely Larissa whom I've never met. Lilly was such a dynamic person, and I have great memories of her. My sympathy and prayers with you.

Dear Larissa, Lynda, Janis and families - I cannot begin to express the shock and sadness when learning of Lil's sudden passing. I have known her for over 20 years after meeting at Gymboree and Brownie classes with our daughters in Edgemont. She was a special friend, and I admired her tremendous wisdom, beautiful spirit, and how she always saw the positive in any situation - good or bad. She was a wonderful, caring mother to Larissa who has grown into such a lovely young woman! She will be so sorely missed and I extend my deepest condolences to you all during this difficult time.
God needed another angel!

I was very saddened to hear about Lilly's passing. I knew her many years ago when we attended the same church. She truly was a beautiful spirit and I will always remember her love for music. I am so sorry for your loss.

Hi Larissa,
I was so sorry to read about your Mom today. I think of you often and hope you're achieving your goals. It is a terrible tragedy to lose your mom so young as I know how close you were. I will always remember her as a smiling, caring, loving mother and a great advocate for you( even in Gr. 6 when she called me at school to ask about the French program). Call me when you get a chance and we'll get together. Chris Knebel

You can't see Lil's picture or think of her spirit without thinking of her smile, enthusiasm for life, love for Larissa, and passion for learning and doing. Larissa ... your Mom was a fantastic woman and you were her pride-and-joy. The world will miss her presence.

Dear Janis and family, Although words seem inadequate at times like this we want to share our care and concern for you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of grief. The Evening Team at Home Care
Carla, Donna, Elaine, Kelly, Mary, MaryFrances, Nadine, Sheila, Suzanne, Terri

I was so sorry to hear of Lil's passing. I will always remember her kindness and great sense of humour. My prayers are with you.

Dear Linda & Phil & all the family,
our prayers are with you!
with sympathy,

Dear Larissa, Janis, Linda and Onkle and Tante Stalts and family,

My heart goes out to you all as you struggle to deal with the passing of Lilly. I know Lilly from the 'German Church' days where she was truly a gifted pianist and singer. She was a beautiful, friendly, outgoing, and fun person to be with. I will continue to pray for comfort to you from God, family, and friends. I am so sorry.

Lilly MacKay

Lil was a wonderful person. I worked with Lil at Bethany Care Society. She was always cheerful and was able to view challenges in the work place in a positive manner. I know that she valued her family above everything. I cannot imagine the pain of your loss at Lil's sudden passing. I had the opportunity to see her in March when we both attended an evening service at Grace Church. I will remember her smile, her interest in the service and those participating in the service.

Please accept my sympathy at your loss. You are in my prayers.

Sincerely,
Nancy Connors

I met Lil last summer at a leadership development workshop at the Banff Centre. I'll always remember her thoughtful feedback and her dreams for the future. She will be missed by loved ones and friends.

I worked with Lil several years ago at Calgary Health Region. Lil brought such joy and energy to each day, and her spirit will be dearly missed. Larissa, she spoke so often of her love for you, and I know she was so proud of you. May you find comfort in the memory of her love in your challenging days ahead. Lana Dunn

We met last year in Banff and developed a strong friendship from paddling up the river. We have been pushing each other to develop our photography ever since.
What a wonderful woman
What a dreadful shame
love and strength

Hey Larissa

We haven't spoken in many many years but when I read about your mother's passing I wanted to extend a note. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts. May your path to healing be gentle.

Lisa Marks

Larissa, Mr. and Mrs. Stalt, Janis and Linda:
May the peace which comes from the memories of the past give you comfort during this very difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Benita and Rod Millar

Larissa,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mom. You are in my thoughts. I am here for you if you need me.

To Larissa and Family

It is with great sadness to hear of Lilly's passing. Although I never met Larissa, I knew Lilly from the time she was born. We used to be neighbors for nineteen years and Lilly was a playmate with our children for many years. My heart goes out to Lilly's family for losing such a precious daughter, sister and mother. May you all find strength in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Adele Eckert & Family

Larissa and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this very tough time. I was so blessed to have worked with your Mom on the Dream Builders committee. Her smile and wisdom I hold close to my heart. She was such a gem. Keep the memories close as then you will know your Mom is near.
With Love and Kindness,
Haley Brietzke

I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity not only to work along side Lilly for the past several years, but the friendship we developed and the memories we shared will remain in my heart always and forever. Lil had so many gifts to offered, she was my mentor, someone I looked to for guidance and support. She had such a beautiful spirit and always looked for the positive things in every situation. Lil was an inspiration to all that knew her.

Larissa, your mom told me so often what a wonderful daughter you were and how proud she was of you for your life's accomplishments. Also she always referred to you as her "best friend". She loved you so very much.

Please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers and I hope you find comfort in friends and family to help you through this time of grief.

Her beautiful spirit will remain in our hearts forever.

We are so sorry to hear of your loss, Larissa. Our thoughts are with you during this time. May your cherished memories comfort you in this time of sorrow.

Janis and Linda, Mr & Mrs Stalts and Larissa:
I was so saddened by this news! Lily was the most talented of piano players that we ever had to play for the Fast Girls songs at the German Church ... if we could hum a tune, Lily could play the song, whether we had notes or not! When we first came to church she was just a little girl and was already playing as if she had years of experience. Our prayers and love surround you in these days.

I will miss so many things about my good friend Lil.......our walks, our talks, laughing at the funny things in life; every visit with Lil was special. Larissa, your Mom was the best.

I'm so sorry to hear of Lilly's passing. Lilly was my violin teacher...way back when. My heart goes out to you Janis and Linda for losing your sister at such a young age.

Lil was so like the mountain streams she loved- fresh and sparkling and alive. She was a seeker of joy, always curious, ever compassionate - a cherished friend who will always dwell in a corner of my heart.

It was with great sadness we heard of Lil's passing. She was a lovely person and a wonderful neighbour. We are so sorry for your loss.

Dear Janis, Warren and families...we were shocked to hear of Lilly's sudden death..Although we had only met her once, we know that for all of you, it must be difficult to say the least...we know you are a close family and we pray that God will comfort you through the days and weeks and months ahead...We entrust her soul to God's care and take comfort from His words we find in John 5:24....Cathy,Warren and family

Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you in you time of grief.
I was truly blessed to be reunited with Lil following our surgeries. Lil was a wonderful friend and I will cherish the memories of our walks and outings as the "Hipsters"; hobbling along on our crutches and canes!
May your memories be a source of comfort in the coming weeks.

My life has been enriched and blessed for having Lil in it. Lil was sweet, fun, thoughtful, adventurous and a wonderful example of motherhood and womanhood. Larissa, your mother set a wonderful example of how to be.

My sincere sympathy to Lil's family.