Beatrice Irene Twardzik

 If it were said of Beatrice Irene Twardzik that she was a kind and caring aunt, sister, teacher and friend, that would be enough. However, she also filled the roles of guardian, mother and grandmother. She passed away in her home surrounded by her loving family in Esterhazy on November 11th, 2021.

Beatrice was born to Anthony and Frances Twardzik on February 16th, 1934, in the Gerald district. Better known as 'Aunt Bea' to many, she loved to learn. Her passion for learning was so great that she felt the need to pass her knowledge onto others. After graduating from Saskatoon Teachers' College in 1954, she became an elementary school teacher. She taught in Northwood, Lloydminster, and finally, Esterhazy, where she spent the rest of her career. In line with her pursuit of knowledge, she also obtained her B.Ed. from the University of Saskatchewan in 1975. When most people would be getting ready for retirement, Beatrice decided to try a new job - raising children. Unique circumstances placed two nieces and a nephew in her care. She is survived by Aurielle, Montana, and Chelsea Bleau.

Beatrice was an avid gardener and a skilled baker. Requests for pies, cinnamon buns and holiday dainties were constant, and visitors would travel from across the prairies for samples of her baking and a taste of her kind and generous spirit. Her willingness to share this spirit with the community was evident. She did volunteer work for the Catholic church and various school programs. She also donated much of her time to the Kaposvar Historical Society, a historical site containing a church and homestead 6 kilometres south of Esterhazy.