It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Eileen Rosenkranz on October 28, 2023 at age 80, swiftly following a diagnosis of cancer.

Although Eileen’s life began and ended in Edmonton, Fort McMurray was always her home. This was where she grew up with her parents Garnet James and Margaret and brother David, met her husband Ronald, and raised her two children Lee and Susan. Over the years, she worked at the Royal Bank, as a stay-at-home mom involved in her children’s schools and activities, and for the Sears catalogue outlet. In recent years, she was overjoyed to take on the role of grandmother to Findlay and Annelise. She enjoyed frequent trips to visit Susan and her family in Ontario, go shopping in Edmonton, take in the sights in Las Vegas, and in years past to see friends on Vancouver Island and visit warm destinations on family vacations, but possibly her favourite place to visit was the kitchen table of her lifelong best friend, Nadean.

Eileen was a strong, kind, generous woman who thrived on taking care of others. Her children always knew that she there to cheer them on, proudly share their accomplishments, lend a supportive ear, or offer any help that was needed. She selflessly encouraged them to spread their wings, even when this meant moving far from home, while always providing a supportive place to land. She provided a model of a loving mother for Susan to learn from as she became a mother herself. And she made the most delicious butter tarts.

Eileen will be lovingly remembered by her children, son-in-law, grandchildren, extended family, and friends.

The family will be holding a small celebration of her life in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Fort McMurray Golden Years Society.

Please join the family at the Golden Years Society on Thursday, November 9th, 2023 for a Celebration of Life for Eileen.

Tea and Coffee will be served. If anyone would like to donate some baked good, that would be greatly appreciated.