Passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at the age of 83, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Biruta was the loving and devoted wife of Janis, beloved mother of Martin (Kristy), and proud Omite of Eva and Anna. She was predeceased by her parents, Edgars and Olga, and her sister, Arija. Biruta leaves behind her sister, Marta Kanigan (Greig Birchfield), and sister-in-law, Mara Krumins-Wilson (Doug). Biruta will be missed by family and friends including her nieces and nephews, Chris (Holly), Stephanie (Evan), Ivita (Matt), and Vitalijs (Kristine).
Biruta was born in Riga, Latvia in 1941, and immigrated to Canada with her family in 1949. Biruta worked for 32 years at the Ottawa Hospital Civic Campus as a registered nursing assistant. After retiring, Biruta volunteered at the Pearly and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre for 15 years. Biruta found deep fulfilment in her service to others.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the May Court Hospice for their excellent and compassionate care.
Friends and family are invited to a visitation at the Beechwood National Memorial Centre, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, followed by a funeral service, interment, and reception.
In Biruta’s memory, donations may be made to the Peace Latvian Lutheran Church.
Digital Guestbook
Suzanne Hall
Ieva Jekabson
So sorry for your loss. Sending you love and strength at the time when words fall short.
Bernadette Lee-Wo
Biruta was a kind and generous woman. She is loved and appreciated by the residents and staff here at Perley Health. We are so very fortunate to know her. Her many years of volunteer service made our world a kinder and gentler place. She is greatly missed.
Anda Sprudzs
To Janis and extended family - may the memories of past "good times" help take you through this time of loss.
Silvija Jurmaliete
Sending deepest sympathy to Janis and family. Biruta was so kind and generous with her time and attention to so many. Her gentle ways were a blessing to all of us who knew her.
AJ & Rick Duthie
To Martin and the whole family - Sending you all the love and support during this time! Nothing can make this easier, but time will make it bearable. All the love! xoxo
Sylvie and Andris Lange
Biruta bija priekšzīmīgs cilvēks. Viņas mūža uzdevums bija palīdzēt slimniekiem un nespēcīgiem kā arī uzaucināt savu mīļo dēlu Mārtiņu.. Viņa atbalstīja latviešu draudzi un saimi pieliekot roku bez lūgšanas. Kad spēks sāka pietrūkt Jānis turēja viņas roku lai vieglinātu sāpes. Mums šis klusajs kalps pietrūks. Vieglas smiltis Biruta!
Melanie MacKay
Martin, my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.