Zoë Cornelia Winkler nee Smith, born in 1957. On the morning of March 4th, 2020, after a four-month battle with cancer, Zoë passed away, surrounded by family at the Agape Manor aged 62. Zoë is survived by husband Robert, children Joshua (Jennifer), Jessica (Jeffrey) Huynh, and Matthew (Vaughn), her siblings Sjana (Wayne) Jackett, Chuck (Patricia) Smith, and Madalen Smith (Dana), her mother Corrie Smith, three grandchildren, and two dogs. She was predeceased by her father Charles Norman Smith, and son Zachary Georg Winkler, and a host of animals. Zoë was born in Portage la Prairie, MB and lived in Calgary, AB, where she worked for the Calgary Board of Education as an educational assistant. Together with Robert her husband of 36 years, they raised their four children. Those who knew Zoë know that she poured her heart into whatever she did. She was incredibly creative and used several mediums. Whether she was drawing, working with clay, felt or glass, her artwork was always a beautiful reflection of what she wanted to create. Her passion for cooking, whether catering for her business or a family gathering, the food was always warming and delicious – it brought people together. Her love of all sewing from mending clothes to quilting was always done with love and with a purpose. Zoë’s love, memory and passion are much like her creations both treasured and timeless always and forever. Zoë’s family will host a celebration of life on May 9th, 2020, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Crossroads Community Association, 1803 14th Ave NE, Calgary, AB. In lieu of flowers, the family has designated The Alberta Children’s Hospital for memorial contributions. Special thanks go to the South Health Campus – Pulmonary Diagnostic Clinic, the staff at the Agape Manor, the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, and Abigail with the Palliative Home Care Services.
16 Comments
Words cannot describe how sad I was to hear that Zoe had passed. It happened way to soon. It was my great pleasure to have known Zoe. She truly was a wonderful, kind and giving soul. And I might add a wonderful chef. I continually admire the close family Zoe and Rob created. As a family they endured enormous pain when Zach fell ill and had to leave this earth. They continue to honor Zach on the anniversary of his passing. My heart breaks again with this huge loss in Zoe’s passing. She was and is the heart of your family. Rob, Josh, Jessica, Matt and family, please know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love you all.
My deepest condolences to all of Zoe’s family. No words can ease the pain of losing a such a beautiful soul, just know she will be with you all in your memories and in your heart. Rob, I know your pain and grieve with you my friend.
My condolences to Robert and his family. I will always remember the catering Zoe and Robert prepared for special occasions. Most of all her cakes. She will be dearly missed.
I am so saddened to hear of zoe’s passing. I loved working with her in Kindergarten and of course I have a beautiful picture that continues to have a special place on the wall. Our family also has five beautiful bears that she sewed for us. She certainly was a talented and giving soul. She will be missed by so many people. My condolences go to your whole family. God Bless. Janice Way
This news has come as a shock and fills me with sadness. I worked with Zoe at Tuxedo Park School, and then we met up again at C. N. Gunn. Zoe was always a delight to be around; she was open, pragmatic, and very funny. I looked forward to seeing her because she always made me laugh. All of us missed her when she retired, but then, there she and Robert were – catering all our staff events at school. Zoe was a beautiful woman, full of kindness, humour and love. I am so sorry.
My deepest condolences for the loss of a beautiful person.
Loved Zoe and her amazing cakes. Her meals provided when I was with Raytheon always kept meeting attendees happy??
I went to school with Zach since preschool, saint Peters, then I moved to St. Patrick’s and he followed a few years later. We were in school together all the way to highschool. Zoe was always such a kind face to run into. My deepest condolences to the family
I don’t have the words to tell you all how sorry I am for your loss. I will miss her smiles her caring her support and most of all her friendship. My heart goes out to you all
Our sincere condolences to the whole family. A truly wonderful lady we unfortunately didn’t get the chance to meet.
Zoe made me a beautiful shadow box with a rider falling off a horse. Most appropriate as that happens to me frequently when riding. I did not know Zoe well but the times I did share with her showed me her great enthusiasm for life. I am thinking of and praying for your family in this heartbreaking time. I am so very sorry you have all lost someone as dear as Zoe.
Rob, Gail and I are saddened to hear of Zoe’s passing. We will always remember an AC cargo Christmas party that Zoe catered. Way back, that was the first time I met. She was a lovely person. Sorry for your loss.
Gino & Gail
Rob and your family, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. Wishing you comfort and peace during this time or great hardship, you are in our thoughts
Very sorry to hear the sad news Rob my condolences to you and your family.
Zoe was a very special lady and loved by everyone who knew her. Please know that we share in your grief and extend our deepest sympathy to you and your family.
Rob, my deepest condolences for your loss. Zoe was a wonderful lady, so sad to hear the news, take care my friend, Richard