Obituary of Evelyn Frances Symonds

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Evelyn Symonds on July 11, 2024; a loving sister, aunt, and great-aunt.

Evelyn was born May 20, 1958 in Edmonton, AB, to Ralph and Fern Symonds. In 1964, the family moved to Red Deer, AB, where they lived for two years before settling in Innisfail, AB. She graduated from the Innisfail High School in 1976. An avid learner, she started at Red Deer College right after high school, eventually moving to the U of A, where she received her degree in education. Because teaching jobs were scarce, she took a position at Michener Centre in the Psychology department, and started working towards her Psychology Degree. Eventually, Evelyn was transferred to Olds, AB, where she held a position as a Client Service Coordinator, a job that she loved. Evelyn was often invited to weddings, birthdays, and other family celebrations by the families on her caseload.

Evelyn was also an avid gardener, just like her mom and her grandma Kroetch. If anyone needed a plant identified, information about the care of a certain flower or plant, or what flower grew best in a certain part of the yard, she was the person we would ask. She was known in her neighbourhood for having a pristine lawn and gorgeous flowers.

Evelyn loved her family and took great pride in her role as an aunt to both her nieces and their children. She did everything she could to make people feel special; always phoning to wish you a happy birthday, writing little stories that went with a gift or in the cards for the children, almost never missing the school or sporting activities of her nieces and great nieces and nephews, and always showing up to family get-togethers with delicious homemade desserts and special treats for the children from “Auntie Ebba” – Just because! She will be remembered by all who knew her as being kind, thoughtful, and patient.

Evelyn will be lovingly remembered by her sister, Wendy Symonds; brother-in-law, Michael Longman; nieces, Brittany Knowler and Michelle Longman; great nieces and nephews, Emerson Knowler, London Knowler, Hunter Patterson, and Carter Patterson; as well as by numerous other family members and friends. A special mention to Cynthia, who was a great support and friend to Evelyn, spending many hours on the phone with her, chatting and talking about world events. The family would also like to thank the staff in Red Deer Hospital Intensive Care Unit for their excellent care and kindness.

Evelyn was predeceased by her parents, Ralph and Fern Symonds; brother, Wayne Symonds; grandparents, Maitland and Gladys Symonds, and Roy and Alma Kroetch; as well as by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A small gathering will take place at a later date. If desired memorial donations may be made to an animal rescue or to the SPCA. Condolences to Evelyn’s family may be emailed to meaningful@telus.net. Please indicate “Symonds” in the subject line.

Arrangements in care of

Meaningful Memorials Funeral Service

A locally owned cremation and funeral provider

serving Red Deer and all of Central Alberta

587-876-4944