Erika (Goldschmidt) Spring

Erika Maria Spring, beloved wife of Barry Spring passed away in Lethbridge on March 19, 2024 after a courageous battle with cancer. Erika was born in 1948 in Leimen, Germany.  She was pre-deceased by her parents Johann and Hedwig Goldschmidt and by her first husband David Woloshyn and her son Mark.

Erika is survived by her husband Barry, children Sandra Bell, Lisa Spring, and Wes (Lyndsey) Spring; seven grandchildren, three great grandchildren; brother Karlheinz Goldschmidt and sister Renate Zillioto.

We remember Erika Spring, a devoted mother and wife, who passed away too soon at the age of 75. Born in Leimen, Germany in 1948, she moved to Canada at 18 and was a very proud Canadian for the rest of her life. She embodied the spirit of the Canadian Rockies – quiet strength and indomitable resilience. 

Erika had a soft spot for the underdogs in our world – a position she found herself in for much of her life. Widowed and alone in a foreign country at 20, she learned English, completed her schooling, got her driver’s license, bought a car and raised her daughter Sandy alone before finally meeting her husband, Barry in 1975. Her family grew and Erika poured her heart into raising her three children – Sandy, Lisa and Wesley.  Family was her compass, and time spent together was her priority. Erika was intelligent and incredibly hard working – a woman who stoically overcame many hardships to earn the respect and admiration of those around her, albeit at times with the assistance of the dreaded “Oma finger”.  

In her younger years, Erika spread joy and mischief – with her cheeky sense of humour she was always the life of the party, creating memories that we will cherish forever. Erika loved animals – especially feline misfits. Strays, alley cats, and even the grumpy tabby from next door – all found love in her lap. She enjoyed exercising, travelling abroad, camping trips and any time her family was together. She loved to cheer on her favorite soccer teams, unleashing a spirited tirade on the sidelines or at the TV when they faltered, as if her shouts could propel them to victory. Those who witnessed her passionate outbursts knew to give her space until the storm subsided.

Erika leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a trail of “borrowed” pub memorabilia – a playful secret she took with her. As we celebrate her life, let’s remember her as the woman who was unwavering in her commitment to her family – who truly was tough as nails. She taught us to work hard and play hard – with a dash of mischief and a heart full of family.  

Rest in peace, my sweet wife, our dearest Mom, our loving Oma. We miss you already. Your strength lives on in our hearts. In our stories, you will always travel with us. 

As per Erika’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Last Chance Cat Ranch, (www.thelastchancecatranch.com/donate-1).

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Erika (Goldschmidt) Spring, please visit our floral store.