Hilda Cassis

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Hilda Marie Cassis, beloved wife of Dr. Awny F. Cassis, who passed away peacefully on May 20, 2024, at the age of 89.

Survived by her loving husband, Dr. Awny Cassis; her sister Verna Jennings; her children Irene (Brent Daviduck), Jehan (Ludvik Pahulje), Marie (François Arcand) and Nevine (David Matthews); Hilda was the beloved grandmother to Quinn, Kahn and Sefrah Daviduck, Stefan and Mikaela Pahulje, Finley and Nadia Matthews and also cherished by her many nieces and nephews in Canada, Ireland, England and Egypt.

She was predeceased by her parents, Henry and Bridget Johnston, and her siblings Reginald Johnston, Muriel O'Loughlin, Kenneth Johnston, and Trevor Johnston.

Hilda was born in Dublin, Ireland to Henry and Bridget Johnston on February 17, 1935. The third oldest of six children in an Irish Catholic family, faith was a central part of her life, often with a rosary in hand and Irish Gaelic prayers in her heart.

Her many passions in life included theatre, song, dance, and athletics. From the famous Abbey Theatre to the tennis courts of Glasnevin, she relished activity, especially tennis. Never one to drive, she loved long walks and bicycling. For adventure, she enjoyed travels to Italy, Germany, and England.

Hilda attended Parnell Technical School for Office Administration in Dublin where eventually her sister Verna introduced her to a handsome scholar and international student from Egypt, attending Trinity College. His name was Awny Cassis and that encounter forever changed the course of her life.

After a 6-month engagement to Awny, she packed her bags and sailed off by herself to get married in Cairo.  She quickly adapted to the culture, the language, and the cuisine, as Mama Marie (Awny's mother) happily welcomed her. Hilda often spoke of how graciously she was welcomed and loved by the Cassis family who were impressed with her proficiency in languages including Arabic.

In Egypt, Hilda was an Assistant English Teacher at St. George's Boys School, combining her love of children and teaching and soon became mother to Irene and Jehan.

The next chapter of her life came 7 years later when the crossroads of war and opportunity led them to a new country, Canada, where Lethbridge, Alberta would become their new home. Landing in January 1968, in a massive snow blizzard, the shock from hot to freezing cold; from the metropolis of Cairo to the then small city of Lethbridge and its surrounding foothills would leave a lasting impression.

While Awny worked at the University of Lethbridge, Hilda worked selflessly at raising her daughters and soon welcomed the birth of Marie (Lethbridge) and Nevine (Dublin), while on sabbatical leave.

Hilda was known for her amazing cooking and exceptional desserts. From delicious meals for family and friends to entertaining University functions, her homemade pastries, Irish trifle, shortbread, Irish soda bread as well as her Egyptian meals and desserts were sought after.

Always a Dubliner at heart, she'd have the kettle on to share a “cuppa” tea with friends and family. Her persuading, radiant smile and twinkling blue eyes made all feel welcome!  Always perceptive and willing to lend a hand whenever needed, she offered support, wisdom, and love in abundance.  She cared deeply and it showed.

An avid knitter, sewer, and gardener, she created gorgeous Aran sweaters, sewed dresses and Irish dancing costumes for her girls with meticulous precision, and grew amazing flowers reminiscent of Ireland.

One of her greatest joys was watching her daughters on stage performing in many Irish dancing competitions (Fèis). She enjoyed socials with the Irish community, providing fond reminders of her roots.

Despite facing serious illness, she defied all expectations with the loving and trusting guidance of her husband Awny (her primary caregiver) and support from her family. Always one to find the silver lining and face her fears and ailments with optimism, she found strength through her faith in God.

To commemorate Hilda's life and our cherished memories, a Prayer Service will be held at 7:00 pm, Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 STREET SOUTH, Lethbridge, Alberta. To watch via livestream, please visit https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Hilda-Cassis

A Funeral Mass will be held at 12:00 pm, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CHURCH, 2405 – 12 AVENUE SOUTH, Lethbridge. To watch via livestream please visit https://www.mbfunerals.com/obituary/Hilda-Cassis

Interment will follow at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY, 1210 SCENIC DRIVE SOUTH, Lethbridge.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your choice of charity.