Charlotte Nelda (Cobbaert) Kulhawy Obituary (1937 - 2024)

In Loving Memory of Charlotte Nelda Kulhawy (1937-2024) It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charlotte Nelda Kulhawy, aged 87, on November 2nd, 2024, in Nanaimo, British Columbia. Nelda, as she was affectionately known, was born on November 12th, 1937, in New Westminster, British Columbia, to Frank Cobbaert and Rhoda (Pallot) Cobbaert. Nelda's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and community service. She is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, Nicholas (Nick) Kulhawy, and their children: Niki-Lou Mackin (Harold), Robert (Jill), Phillip (Judy), and David (Heidi). She also leaves behind a legacy of grandchildren, Nick, Phillip, Charlotte (Nick), Derek (Allison), Mathew (Lindsay), Kevin (Lyndie), Marisa, Stephanie (Jacob), Matt (Naomi), Jayden (Aleida), Josh (Mariah), and Christopher (Jordyn),and great-grandchildren Abby, Kate, Mia, Mason, Jackson, Adlen, Rhea, Freya, Micah, Bohun, Olesko, Ingrid, Sawyer and Oakley who all brought her great joy. She was predeceased by her brothers Ed and Robert, and survived by brother Frank and sisters Rachel and Lisa. Nelda's love story began with a simple dinner she prepared for Nick, a friend of her brother Ed. As the saying goes, "The way to a man's heart is through his stomach," and this proved true for Nick and Nelda. They were married on August 27th, 1955, in New Westminster, BC, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared dreams. The young couple soon moved to Calgary, where Nick was stationed as a member of Lord Strathcona's Horse. They chose to make Calgary their home, raising their family and building a life together. It was here that Nelda's compassionate nature truly shone. In addition to raising their own children, Nick and Nelda generously opened their hearts and home to 67 children in need of temporary foster care, providing love and support to those without resources. Nelda's industrious spirit was evident in the successful businesses she and Nick built together. In 1968, they founded A-1 Flooring, which later became Nick's Flooring. Nelda's organizational skills were crucial to their success, as she masterfully managed the office and kept operations running smoothly. Retirement beckoned in 1989, and the couple relocated to Vancouver Island. However, their industrious nature continued, and after just one year, they launched Mastercraft Floors in Duncan, BC. Here, Nelda once again proved indispensable in helping manage the business. Beyond her role as a devoted wife, mother, and successful businesswoman, Nelda was deeply involved in her community. She was an active member of the Royal Purple, rising to the position of "Honoured Royal Lady." Her commitment to service and generous spirit left a mark on all who knew her. Nelda found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid reader, deriving pleasure from the pages of her beloved books. She enjoyed travelling and visited over 60 countries. But nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her family, watching it grow and flourish over the years. Those who knew Nelda will remember her for her kindness, compassion for others, her work ethic, her generous nature, her sense of humour and her deep devotion to her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the loving family she nurtured. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to The Rotary Club of Duncan. rotaryclubofduncan@gmail.com or text 250-701-2872 A celebration of life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church Chemanius B.C. 1:00pm Saturday November 30th 2024