Obituary of Aloisia Plank

It is with a heavy heart and fond memories that we inform you of the passing of Louisa Plank in her 101st year on the 9th day of April, 2021. Louisa passed away peacefully in her residence at Heatherwood Retirement Home. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Roland (1996) and her dear sister Anna Werner (2017). Louisa was a loving aunt to three special nephews Richard Werner (Viz), Ed Werner (Barb) and Frank Zakrajsek (Aljosa) as well as many grand nieces and nephews. She will also be greatly missed by her grand-niece Julie Werner-Hill and dear friends Gloria Dupuis and Barbara Mawhood. Louisa started out her life as Aloisia Zakrajsek in the former Yugoslavia (Slovenia). She was born in Grebenje to Frank and Aloisia and was sister to Anna, Tone and Joseph. As a teen she began her incredible journey by leaving to live in Austria by herself. There she worked as a nanny and then as an aide at a girls’ school. When World War II broke out she then went to work as an orderly in a nearby hospital tending to wounded soldiers. It was during this time that she met the love of her life, Roland. After the war ended she persuaded her new husband to venture to Canada, originally landing in Val-d’Or, Quebec and one year later in St. Catharines, Ontario. Together they built their home on Albany drive and watched the neighbourhood develop around them. Louisa lived in that house that she loved for nearly seventy years. During that time she worked many jobs and usually arrived at them by walking or riding the bus. She was always a very active, independent and strong individual who loved tending to her garden, going to the horse races with Roland and taking exquisite care of her beloved pets. While already in her 90’s she still bowled in two leagues. Having established a very comfortable life in Canada Louisa had many family members follow her here. She always would lend a helping hand. She brought her mother to live with them and she took care of her until her passing. She was also followed by her sister, nephews, cousins and their children who are all grateful of her leadership. Special thanks to all the thoughtful caregivers at Heatherwood. Due to current Covid-19 restrictions, a private Funeral Liturgy will be held at St. Denis Roman Catholic Church followed by a Rite of Committal at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. If desired, memorial donations to “Operation Smile” or “Animal Assistance Society of Niagara” would be appreciated.