June 22, 1926 – September 19, 2024   

With hearts full of love and cherished memories, we announce the passing of Alexandria “Elsie” Zachary. Elsie, the middle of five children, was born in Kelowna. Shortly after her birth, the family returned to their homestead in Cowan, MB, where all four of her brothers were born. 

Elsie married Bill in 1946, and while pregnant in the summer of 1947, they moved to Vernon, where their four children were born in the Okanagan. Sixteen years later, the family relocated to Kamloops, where Elsie worked in the laundry department at Royal Inland Hospital for over 20 years. Following Bill’s passing in 2016, Elsie found joy and comfort living with her daughter Cathy in Kamloops. 

Mom loved her garden and always preserved produce for the winter. In her later years, she found great happiness helping in the kitchen, where perogies were always lovingly made for all visitors. 

She greeted everyone with a cheerful smile and never had a harsh word for anyone. Her last words over the phone to her family were a simple yet profound reminder: “Love each other.” 

Elsie is lovingly remembered by her daughter Cathy Forsythe, grandson Jason (Vanessa) O’Brien, son Don (Mars) Zachary, and grandchildren Alysia (Liam) MacInnes, with great-granddaughter Sloan; Kristina (Savonn) Sam, Lucas, and Mikayla; son Steven (Jennifer) Zachary, with grandson Dustin; and daughter Maggie Zachary and Mike Godfrey. She is also survived by her brothers John Romak and Mike Romak, brother-in-law Terry Zachary, and many nieces, nephews, and their families. 

Elsie was predeceased by her parents, Alex and Pauline Romak, her beloved husband Bill Zachary of 70 years, and her brothers Joe and Dmetro Romak. 

The family extends special thanks to Dr. Wege, Dr. Hopp, and the doctors and staff at Royal Inland Hospital. A heartfelt thank you to Fr. Andrzej for his monthly visits and chats over tea and cookies. 

Memorial donations in Elsie’s memory may be made to the Royal Inland Foundation. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Zachary family. 

• Date : 2024-09-19
• Location : Kamloops