We Remember
REKTOR, Theresa Ruth (née McDonnell)
July 28, 1939 — February 21, 2024
Born July 28, 1939, Kitchener, Ontario
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our mother, Theresa Rektor on February 21, 2024. While her passing leaves us without her daily presence, her spirit and love remain with each of us. She is beside us always.
Theresa passed away peacefully into the presence of her Lord and Saviour. She believed that the Bible is the inspired word of God and that Jesus said ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’ (John 14:6)
In 1959, Theresa married the love of her life, Ed Rektor. She is now reunited with her beloved husband. She was also predeceased by her parents, James and Mary McDonnell (née Heathwood), and siblings, Jim, George (Geordie), Samuel (Sammy), John, Pat, and Mary.
Both Theresa and Ed grew up in large and loving families. Together they shared a dream of creating their own large family. Their wish came true; they have 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.
Theresa leaves behind her daughter Laurie Rektor (Gord Aitken) and grandchildren Emma Rektor and Hannah Rektor; her son Chris Rektor (Sue) and grandchildren Naomi Novak, James Rektor and Victoria Mollerup; her son Joseph Rektor (Tanya Gall) and grandchildren Janelle Vandermeer and Melissa Rektor with Anita Rektor; her daughter Min Knight (Rob) and grandchildren Sarah Knight, Jennifer Knight and Stephanie Knight; and her son Matthew Rektor (Vanessa) and grandchildren Emily Rektor and Kathryn Rektor. She also leaves seven great-grandchildren, Hunter, Flora, Riley, Cameron, Clara, Fallon, and Alaya.
Theresa is survived by many family members and relatives from the McDonnell and Rektor families, and by circles of close friends.
Family and family gatherings have been one pivotal theme throughout Theresa’s adult life; exemplified by the many, many large gatherings held with extended family members and friends, as well as invitations extended to brand-new acquaintances to join the family in her home for holiday meals, tea parties, and special occasions. Her house has been filled beyond capacity with people more times than could be written.
Theresa enjoyed time spent with ladies and friends from church and bible studies, sharing friendship and laughter over lunches, coffees, and countless orders of french fries.
In her later years, Theresa, always a skilled craftsperson, took up quilting. It was a joy that she shared with her special group of quilting ladies, the Pro-Craftinators.
Quilts are the perfect symbol for how Theresa lived her life. Family was at the centre of everything she did. She focused on each member and ensured that they felt embraced and loved for who they are. For every quilt that she created, each piece of fabric was selected, cut, and stitched together with love and generosity. Through quilting, she found a way to ensure that her family will continue to be enveloped and warmed by her love.
The exceptional skilled help, compassion, and abundant love our family received from all of you at the Village at Smith Creek and Central Okanagan Hospice House cannot be overstated. You are impacting and blessing people at a colossal level. With very much appreciation and gratitude, we thank you!
Theresa also received excellent care and support from the staff at Kelowna General Hospital, Kelowna Homecare Solutions, and the Rehabilitation Centre, for which the family is grateful.
Theresa’s life will be celebrated on SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM, at LAKEVIEW HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH (2630 Alhambra Drive, West Kelowna) and will be followed by a reception. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to a charity of your choosing. Consider gathering your special people together for a special meal and time of creating your own memories as we remember Theresa.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 2024, at 2:00 PM (PST)
Location
LAKEVIEW HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH
There are no words that can take away the pain and sorrow. Take comfort in knowing there is so much love and support…and although we cannot be with you in person we are there in spirit to share the love of your dear Mother. Our deepest condolences…Larry and Lee Ann
To our dear cousins and their families
We were so lucky to grow up surrounded by the love of our families. As cousins, we have great memories of the many family dinners on Lydia Street, and the wonderful food Aunt Theresa prepared. For me, one of the most concurring and lasting memories we all shared as kids, was collectively gathering around the television to watch the Wonderful World of Disney on Sundays. It’s core childhood memories like these that stay with us for a lifetime and bring us happiness. Aunt Theresa was always so happy to see us, asked about how we were doing and what was new and exciting in our lives. The special bond she and our dad shared is always going to remain in our hearts, forever. We share in your loss and hope you find comfort in your own wonderful memories of your mother. Aunt Theresa will always be thought fondly. Love Brian, Bridget, Dan and Colleen
We so lucky to have such a close knit family growing up and Theresa was a very important part of that, first as an Aunt and then as a friend. We always enjoyed spending time with her over coffee, or Swiss Chalet french fries. Theresa always made time for family and we will miss her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time and wish we could be there.
Dear family, We will be thinking of all of you tomorrow as you celebrate the life of Theresa, our dear sister-in- law, your loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. We will always remember Theresa’s and Ed’s warm hospitality..
We will join you in spirit tomorrow. Love and our sincere condolences , Bruno and Lilly
We remember Theresa with great appreciation for her faithfulness to her family and to Village Church during those days. May God comfort each one of you in the family as only He can.