Obituary of Gloria Jane Stepanek

Peacefully, in a solarium room at the Perth Hospital, at the age of 79, surrounded by her family. Loving mother of Heidi (Peter), and Holly. Survived by their father, Paul. Treasured grandmother of Evander, Emanuella, Lily, Jacob, Aja, Jaime and Anika. Cherished sister of Carol Jean. Dear great-grandmother of Levi, Lyra-James, Tanasi and Samuel. Special friend, aunt, teacher, cousin and colleague to so many.

Gloria was a scrapper, and fought a difficult and long illness for many years with her unique brand of quirky humour.  “Though she be but little, she is fierce.” She had a rare ability to really see a person, and give them her full and undivided focus and empathy. She was a true artist, full of energy, passion and unquenchable creativity. 

Gloria grew up in the small village of Wilberforce, Ontario, where she attended the local two-room schoolhouse where her mother was teacher and principal. She trained as a nurse and a journalist until she settled on her true love, teaching, as her career. She passed on her bright light to so many students over her 40-year career, the bulk of which was at St John Elementary and High School in Perth, where she became the head of Special Education. She started the theatre program there in the 1980s, and was instrumental in producing, directing, and performing in countless musicals at the school and in the community throughout her life. She loved painting, and was quite adept, leaving behind many masterpieces. Her art studio was her happy place. Her main focus, however, was her family, who she loved with her whole heart.

Please join us in celebrating GG’s life on Sunday, June 7 from 2:00 – 5:00 pm at Code’s Mill on the Park, Perth. As per her request, live bands will be playing her favourite 1950s and 60s tunes so we can all sing and dance along with her – please wear your most colourful and festive outfit. In lieu of flowers, donations to an annual scholarship for St. John Catholic High School in memory of Gloria is being established, and would be appreciated by the family.