Arija Kocins

1931 – 2023

Peacefully on February 19, 2023, Arija passed away surrounded by family at the Red Deer Regional Hospital.
She was predeceased by her parents, Edwards and Emilija; husband, John; brother, Uldis; sister-in-law, Irene; and daughter-in-law, Sandra. Arija is lovingly remembered by her son Maris (Annette), daughter Ilze (Bryon); grandchildren Mitchell (Ruth) and Deanna (Vincent),Thea and Celina, Steven (Stephanie and children), Amy; brother in law Juris (Baiba) of Riga, Latvia; sister in law Ann; nieces Carol (Jude), Diane (Bill), and Brenda (Sanders); great niece and nephews and many friends.

Arija loved tending to her garden, hosting family and friends, worshipping at church, scrapbooking, and reading. Born in Daugavpils, Latvia in 1931, Arija’s childhood was shortened by World War II and she immigrated to Canada in 1949. Arija provided dedicated service to the Michener Centre in Red Deer as a psychiatric nurse and nurse manager for 32 years, retiring in 1991. Arija is remembered as a selfless, joyous, and resilient matriarch, who gave everything she could to her family and friends.
Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 24 at 2:00 p.m. at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 18 Selkirk Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta. Viewing will take place at 10:00 a.m. at Eventide Funeral Home, 4820 45 Street, Red Deer, Alberta with burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Alto Reste Cemetery.

Arija’s family is sincerely grateful to the medical and pastoral care staff of the Red Deer Regional Hospital for the comfort, compassion, and guidance they provided during her final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation or a charity of one’s choice. Condolences may be left for the family at www.eventidefuneralchapels.com

• Date : 2023-02-19
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home