Mary Josephine Naslund
Mary Naslund (Tkacik) was born in 1935 in Lockhart, Alberta. Mary’s parents, Jozef and Elizabeth, and her five older siblings immigrated from Czechoslovakia between 1933 and 1938. Mary was the youngest of seven and the second Tkacik child born in Canada. Her brothers (Frank, Johnny, Valent) and sisters (Elizabeth, Agnes, and Sophie) have all predeceased her.
Mary met her husband, Gunnar in Red Deer while she worked at her sister Elizabeth’s restaurant in the Valley Hotel. She married Gunnar on Feb 20, 1960 and they were married for 63 years. Mary was a stay-at-home mom. She gave lovingly to her three daughters and was a frequent volunteer at her children’s schools, the Marian Centre, CWL, and as a canvasser for countless charities. She is survived by her three daughters Mary (Bill), Carol (Don), and Barb (Jean-Henri) and by five grandchildren: Holly, Kedra, Marc (Amberlee), Katherine, and Jomari and by four great-grandchildren: Dominic, Jane, Benedict, and Martin. She is also survived by her dear sisters-in-law Orva Tkacik and Siri Thibeault. Her children and grandchildren always knew by her selfless words and actions how much she loved them. Everyone was always welcome at her house. She would say don't call just come. And come they did – she hosted more than 10 long term guests and countless visitors over the years. Her Catholic faith was very important to her: Mary prayed the rosary daily with her husband and in the last five months with her daughter, Mary.
Prayer Service
Tuesday May 14, 2024, 7:00PM
St. Edmund's Catholic Church
13120 116 St NW, Edmonton, AB
Mass of Christian Burial
Wednesday May 15, 2024, 12:00PM
St. Edmund's Catholic Church
13120 116 St NW, Edmonton, AB
Please pray for the eternal rest of her soul.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory can be made to The Marian Centre and St. Edmund’s Parish.
Mary and Gunnar hosted us as we Jensens traveled from the US. They were giving and loving people always. My son and my parents felt so welcomed in their home. We loved playing cards and dice with them. I also remember Mary and Gunnar caring for us as kids long ago. We cherish our memories with all of you. God bless as you celebrate the beautiful person Mary was and the beautiful angel she now is!
Dear Duteau and Naslund family members. We will have Mass said for Mary. We carry you in our hearts and prayers.
You are good people and we lift you up to Jesus that you will be consoled and given peace during this time of loss and grief.
Mary and Gunnar have met the Lord and were ready to meet Him. As faithful Catholic Christians, they have blessed others by their example.
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy
Thanks so very much Arline
It was truly a shock to hear about Mary’s passing and to realize that she is the last of the Tkacik children from Leedale, Alberta. All members of the Tkacik family were close to my parents – Joe and Annie Krivy and their children Frances, Joanna, Gary and Sharon. She will not be forgotten along with her husband Gunnar for their humor and enjoyment of life. Deepest condolences to all the family. You will be in our thoughts and prayers this week.
Hi Mary and Bill,
I’m very sorry for the loss of Mommy Mary. My condolences to the whole family, she is a very lovely and loving lady. Her house is always open to everybody. She will be missed ❤️
I remember well, Aunt Mary’s laugh and hugs, very warm and welcoming, and such a beautiful person. What a blessing to this world. Condolences, and prayers sent from White Bear, in hopes of comforting you all. Love to you all, too.