It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear “Mama” Katie Wall, beloved wife of the late Ben Wall, on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 100 years.

Mama, as she was so fondly known by many, came to Canada as an infant with her parents, Abram and Anna Nikkel, who immigrated from Orenburg, Russia. She grew up in the Coaldale/Readymade area as the oldest of seven children. As the eldest, she took on many responsibilities, helping care for her younger siblings and working on the family farm, demonstrating her strong work ethic and caring nature from a young age.

As a young teen, she met the love of her life, Ben Wall. Mama and Papa were married in April 1945 and built a beautiful life together grounded in faith, love, and dedication to family. Together, they adopted four children whom -although adopted - Mama and Papa loved and protected fiercely as their own, ensuring their children always had their needs met and knew they were deeply cherished.

Mama was an exceptional cook and baker. Her zwieback, a weekly product, was enjoyed by many, and she always made extra to share with extended family. Her roast beef and dumplings remain a family favorite. The kitchen was her happy place, where she lovingly prepared meals and baked goods not only for her family but also for anyone who dropped by. Mama’s table was always open, and everyone who sat there was made to feel like family.

Her love for family was shown through her constant support and willingness to help in any way she could. Whether driving farm trucks or the combine during harvest season, or providing meals and encouragement, Mama was always there. Above all else, she was a faithful prayer warrior. She prayed daily for each child, their spouse, grandchild, and great-grandchild by name. If she knew of a struggle or challenge in someone’s life, she faithfully prayed for guidance, strength, and encouragement for them.

After Papa’s passing, our family wondered how Mama would manage, but she showed remarkable resilience and bravery. She learned to do everything on her own and remained fiercely independent. Even as her health declined, she faced each challenge with determination.

Mama spent her final years at St. Michael’s Care Centre, where the staff became incredibly important to her. Many of them lovingly called her “Mama”, becoming like family to her. She also loved each of them deeply and would have gladly baked or cooked for them if she could. Our family is forever grateful to the staff at St. Michael's for the exceptionally kind and compassionate care, dignity, respect, and love shown to Mama while she resided there.

Mama leaves behind a legacy of unwavering faith, love, and a family who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Mama will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her three daughters: Barbara (Vic) Penner, Kathy (Ron) Regehr, and Bernadine (John) Wojtowicz; her daughter-in-law, Myrt Wall; eight grandchildren; and thirteen great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. She is also survived by her brothers, Peter (Elsie) Nikkel and Ed (Marilyn) Nikkel; her sister, Mary (Len) Schroeder; her brother-in-law, Arnold Kornelsen; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her husband, Ben; her son, Clarence; her brother Abe; and her sisters Ann and Clara.

The family has chosen to celebrate “Mama’s” life privately at a later date.