Obituary of Hilma Emma Elisabeth Steiner
Peacefully, on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at the Newmarket Health Centre, at age 92. Hilma (nee Plate), wife of the late Karl Albert Steiner. Loved mother of Janet Lau and Karen and her husband Brian Horton. Loving grandmother of Simon, Beth and Jonathan. Dear sister of Heino Plate (deceased), Wolfgang Plate and Klaus Plate (deceased). The Family of Hilma Steiner will receive friends at the WAGG FUNERAL HOME, 216 Queen Street in Port Perry (905-985-2171) on Saturday, May 13th from 1 – 2 p.m. A Service to Celebrate her life will be held in the Chapel at 2 p.m. If desired, memorial donations may be made to the SPCA, the Canadian Wildlife Federation or the charity of your choice. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.waggfuneralhome.com
********************************************************
Hilma was born August 16, 1930 in Soltau, a beautiful little town set in the heatherfields of Germany. As a child and teenager, she enjoyed walking in the woods and riding with her Bicycle Club friends.
Hilma and her family survived WWII, but she was tormented by it her whole life. She apprenticed as a Paralegal in Soltau. Her plans changed when her brother Heino and his friend immigrated to Canada. Soon thereafter in 1951 she and more Soltau-ians followed suit and settled in Toronto. She always maintained strong ties with her family and classmates in Germany.
Hilma married John Doge in 1952. Their daughters Janet and Karen were born and brought her great joy. However, the marriage was an unhappy one and ended in divorce. It became necessary for Hilma to find employment. It was difficult - especially as her hearing was weakening. She found work with her brother Wolfgang, who had also immigrated to Canada, in the 1960's. Her parents Elly and Fritz Plate immigrated in the 1970's. They lived in a home Wolfgang had purchased on Frankdale Avenue in Toronto, the street where brother Heino also lived. Over the years this home became a hub for many parties with family and friends. Featured at these events were Hilma's fabulous cakes!
Hilma corresponded through letters with her youngest brother Klaus, who lived in San Francisco and later Dunedin, New Zealand.
In 1979 Hilma married Karl Steiner. They shared many laughs together while living in Beaverton, until his death twelve years into the marriage.
Hilma's daughter Karen married Brian Horton in 1984. Grandchildren Simon and Beth arrived in 1986 and 1989. A third grandchild, Jonathan was born to Janet in 1994. Hilma cherished her grandchildren and was proud of all their accomplishments.
Hilma had lived in 18 different places in Ontario. She particularly loved living in her pretty trailer home on a large wooded lot, south of Lindsay. This was close to Heino and Wolfgang, who then lived side by side on Lake Scugog. At her trailer she engaged in antics with her buddy Gus - her neighbour and dear friend.
Hilma's love of reading began when she was a child. Books were always her refuge, even more so as her hearing worsened. Music had always filled her home, but sadly she could eventually hear no more. Beethoven was her favourite. She was an avid moviegoer. She loved to travel. She had a passionate love for all animals - particularly cats!
Hilma's last 10 years were spent at Newmarket Health Centre, a long-term care home. She lived there quite happily, but experienced some difficult times. She enjoyed and was supported by the wonderful staff, by cuddles from therapy dogs and by weekly visits from Karen. Hilma had a playful nature and a mischievous sense of humour. What a joy she was to all who knew her!