Phyllis Albina (Pyret) Schultz

In the early morning hours of Thursday, August 24, 2023, the final chapter in Phyllis’ 95 year life history concluded as her eyes gently closed.

She was born in Maple Creek, Saskatchewan on Wednesday, October 12, 1927 to Mike and Katie Pyret, the second of six children and the only girl in what likely was a rambunctious and busy household. The family moved to Cedoux, Saskatchewan to endure what would later become coined as the “dirty thirties”. In the 1960’s, Phyllis would move west to Alberta, to the town of Ponoka, where she met and married Leo Schultz. It was here that she raised her four children – Robbyn, Michael, Rosemary and Stanley – and her love of being close to nature while nurturing plants and animals became evident to all who knew her.

Transitioning through motherhood, and becoming an auntie, and then a grandma made her glow with happiness and pride. She found happiness in doing things for, and in spending time with, her grandchildren. They were truly one of her greatest joys and she loved spending time with each of them. Their laughter and energy brought a sparkle to her eyes that nothing could replicate, whether while playing games, telling stories or simply being present, she cherished every moment she spent with them and it was clear that her love for them was endless and without boundaries.

Her grandchildren recall that grandma had many passions, each of which left a mark on those that knew her. She had a green thumb that seemed effortless, and her gardens, orchards and green house were a testament to her dedication and care. Her love of gardening wasn’t simply about the plants; but more about nurturing growth, sharing and providing for others. 

Simply put, she loved her gardens. Vegetables, flowers, berries, bushes and trees – and there was nothing she couldn’t grow. She harvested everything she could and found new and innovative ways to use the vegetables and fruits that her crops produced, whether in juices or fruit leathers or traditional canning, freezing and pickling. What she couldn’t use herself, she offered to others.

She had an eye for a good bargain, and her ability to find value in unexpected places was remarkable. That knack was not just about saving money; it was a testament to her resourcefulness and her ability to see the potential in everyday things. Her grandchildren remember sharing in the excitement of travelling to garage sales with her and the fun that they shared in those moments. Her resourcefulness and creativity extended to her knitting, crocheting and sewing, where some of the family’s favorite pieces were when she transformed fabrics into clothes, costumes and kids play clothes.

We all recall the jar of candies that sat on the shelf by the phone, and the counter full of treats. It was a small gesture, but one that showed her generosity. Another cherished memory is of the laundry hanging on the clothesline – a simple act of thriftiness which also connected her to tradition. And from this same front door stoop where laundry was hung, the memories of sitting and shelling peas and washing garden vegetables – seemingly mundane tasks which were moments of connection to the simple pleasures in life and to the importance of family spending time together.

We would be remiss if we didn’t speak to her fun loving nature, particularly with her grandchildren. The stories are absolutely endless, but to share an honorable mention, it was Grandma’s idea to ride with the grandchildren down the steep staircase from the second floor to the main floor on a very large pillow, bouncing and laughing all the way down! This was repeated until everyone had at least one or two turns.

She is remembered and missed by her daughter Robbyn Carlson, granddaughter Amanda (Erwin) Morden; son Michael (Colleen) Schultz, grandchildren Kyler (Dana), Landon (Caitlin), Dalton; daughter Rosemary (Bernie) Cyr, grandchildren Kiefer and Cienna Roasting; son Stanley (Krista) Schultz, granddaughter Amy; her brother Leo (Shirley) Pyret; sister-in-law Karen (Jim) Wing; and numerous special nephews and nieces.

She was predeceased by her husband Leo; her parents Mike and Katie Pyret; brothers John, Ted, Stanley and Joe Pyret; and son-in-law Frank Carlson.

A private family Memorial was held on Thursday, August 31, 2023 to honor her life.  The service was recorded - the video is located below.

Memorial donations may be made to

Old MacDonald Kennels at www.oldmacdonaldkennels.com

or to a charity of your choice.

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