In Loving Memory of Cora Carol Wilms (Rebman)
Our hearts are heavy with grief as we remember the life of Cora Carol Wilms (Rebman), who peacefully departed from this world on July 30th, 2023, at the Cypress Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Cora, a remarkable and beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, friend, and neighbor, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be remembered.
Left behind to cherish her memory are her four sons: Lane (Brenda), Laird (Sharon), Darwyn (Ila) and Darren (Lori), her 10 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws.
Cora was predeceased by her husband, Dale, on November 4th, 2022. He was the love of her life. She was also predeceased by her parents, John and Cecilia Rebman, her parents-in-law, Harm and Anna Wilms, her brothers, Lawrence, John, Ray, Stephen, and her sisters, Lillian, Florence, Ellen and Patricia. Brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law: Glenn and Ruth Wilms, Bill and Evelyn Williamson, Raymond Wilms.
Born on December 9, 1932, in Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, Cora was the second youngest of nine siblings born to John and Cecilia Rebman. Her early life was a testament to resilience, warmth, and determination. She was the smallest of the bunch and she would share the memory of her sleeping in a shoebox by the coal/oil stove to stay warm. She would also tell stories about the endless teasing she shared with her siblings showcasing her tenacity and ability to find comfort and strength. Each of her siblings was adorned with a unique nickname, a testament to the cherished moments they shared, her nickname was "bubbles."
As life unfolded, Cora's path led her to Swift Current, where she met the love of her life, Dale Wilms. They got married on April 20,1954 in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, which marked the beginning of an extraordinary partnership that would span over 68 years. Their enduring love was a source of inspiration, a testament to the power of devotion, and a shining example of true partnership for their family and friends. Dale would come into the kitchen after farming every single day and give Cora a kiss.
Cora and Dale embarked on a life together on the farm, nurturing their dreams and raising their four sons. Cora's hands were never idle, whether she was tending to her bountiful garden, assisting Dale with the animals, or offering her culinary expertise to the road crew during the construction of the four-lane #1 highway, or hosting the hundreds of people who came from all over the world to see Dale's cows. Cora's kitchen was a place of warmth and laughter, Dale was the storyteller, but Cora's quick wit and one-liners were legendary, bringing joy to all fortunate enough to share her company. Dale would bring people in, and Cora would keep them there.
Her dedication to family extended to her role as a grandmother, where her heart expanded to embrace each new grandchild with love and cuddles. Cora loved babies. She would always be so happy to hear that there was going to be another grandchild coming. When they would come home from the hospital, she was waiting to hold them and give them lots of love.
For as long as we can remember, Cora enjoyed going to auction sales to find antique treasures. Later, she enjoyed the garage sales, buying more and more treasures and then having her own garage sales. The family called her the "Garage Sale Guru". People from all over would come to see "Cora's collectibles," and when the grandkids got homes of their own, they knew where there would be an extra set of dishes waiting for them. She enjoyed the bartering, and she knew the value of her treasures. Along the way she started collecting elephants, people would bring along an elephant when they came for a visit. Her home is still full of elephants.
When Dale and Cora started their "Golden Years" they enjoyed going on many bus tours, visiting casinos in Deadwood, Sky Dancer, Las Vegas and they also went on an Alaskan Cruise. Cora enjoyed the casinos.
Cora's life was characterized by hard work, resilience, and a profound sense of humor. Her collection of elephants symbolize her strength and wisdom, much like the mighty creatures themselves. Her commitment to lifelong learning, combined with her wit and warmth, created an environment of laughter, growth, and love that left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In accordance with Cora's wishes, a public funeral will not be held. Instead, her family invites you to remember her by making donations to the Allan Blair Cancer Clinic or the Canadian Cancer Society, organizations close to her heart.
As we bid farewell to Cora, we find solace in the memories we shared, the laughter she brought, and the love she bestowed upon us all. Her legacy of strength, love, and resilience will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.
Arrangements entrusted to Warren's Funeral Home. For further information please call 1-306-773-8831 or 1-800-267-6606, or visit our website at www.warrensfuneralhome.com and express your sympathy to family members on the tribute wall.