I recently received news that my dear friend, Ingrid Wenzel, passed away after a six-year battle with cancer. She was well known throughout Northern B.C. for her friendly personality, storytelling, music and much more.
Her father, Jan-Udo Wenzel, was known for his career with the Prince George Citizen as a writer and author to the Ginter story. Her mother Linda, is a well known and respected retired elementary music school teacher for School District 57.
Ingrid grew up in the Pineview/Blackburn community. She was a loyal supporter of her community and could be found planning and encouraging all to participate in events such as the annual Pineview Snow Frolics. She sang in and directed community choirs, drove for Operation Red Nose and volunteered with friends at St. Vincent De Paul. Ingrid’s second home was the iconic Alternate Pub. When she wasn’t there either working or socializing, she would could be found moonlighting in a local band playing her saxophone, often offering a birthday tune or tribute.
Prince George residents will remember Ingrid for her storytelling skills. She was the children’s programmer at the Prince George Library for many years and had a big fan following. She would dress up, sing and involve the crowd in her stories, which were for the young and old.
Ingrid held prominent positions in the community as an early childhood educator and as a local chapter member of the Early Childhood Educators of B.C. She served at the Carney Hill Community School and daycare for many years. She was also the owner/operator of a community pre-school. She continued on to work for community based programs, Childcare Resource Referral and Strong Start BC.
Ingrid lived and worked and spread community spirit in Prince George, Quesnel and finally Smithers. She has left Northern B.C. with a legacy of laughter, music, storytelling and educating children and strong community involvement and support. She always had a smile and took time to chat with just about anyone. Ingrid touched many lives in the North and we will always be grateful for who she was and what she gave us.
The outpouring of social media messages and heartfelt tributes this week are a testament to Ingrid’s humanness. She will be missed. In honour of Ingrid, please take the time to say hello to a stranger and strike a conversation.
Who knows? You might make a new friend!
This submission was lovingly encouraged and supported by Kristen Eastman, Traci Kreitz and Dychelle Williams.
Jessica Hrechka Fee
Victoria
