We Remember
MATZIGKEIT, Lilly
January 26, 1940 — April 21, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lilly Matzigkeit of Kelowna, BC, who passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026.
Lilly was born on January 26, 1940, in Neu-Sarata, Bessarabia, Romania. At the age of five, as the Soviet Army approached in 1945, her family fled during the evacuation of Germans, eventually settling in Schmoel, Schleswig-Holstein. There, she enjoyed a simple and happy childhood, spending time with her cousins and taking trips to the North Sea.
In 1953, Lilly immigrated with her family to Calgary, Alberta. While adjusting to a new country and language was not always easy, she found comfort in her faith community at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, where she sang in the choir. It was there that she met the love of her life, Wolfgang. They married young and began building their family together.
With four young children, Lilly and Wolfgang moved to North Delta for work before eventually settling in Kelowna to be closer to family. Kelowna became her home for many years, where she was deeply involved in church life. She sang in the choir, participated in the Frauenverein, and helped prepare meals for the Gospel Mission. Her faith and sense of community were central to her life.
Lilly will be remembered for her loving demeanour, grace, and strength, and was known for her deep faith, love of gardening and cooking, and opening her home to visitors from all over with open arms. Those who knew her can all attest to Lilly’s beautiful smile and the best hugs.
Lilly is lovingly remembered by her children, Rick (Pam), John, Ingrid, all of Kelowna, and David (Brenda) of Nova Scotia. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Wolfgang (d. 2003); her sister Pauline Leimert (d. 2010); her brother Alfred Neumann (d. 1945); her parents Eduard (d. 1978) and Lydia (d. 1985) Neumann; and her son-in-law Bryan Sutton (d. 2022).
Despite many health challenges over the years, Lilly faced each one with courage, grace, and even humour.
Lilly will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
A Graveside Service will be held on THURSDAY, April 30, 2026, at 1:30 PM, located at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, 1991 Bernard Avenue, Kelowna. A casual gathering with Kaffee und Kuchen will follow.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
THURSDAY, April 30, 2026, at 1:30 PM
Location
Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery

