Obituary of Ivana Helen Runza

RUNZA – Ivana Helena (nee Schlieder) of St Thomas passed away peacefully with her beloved family at her side on Friday, February 28^th, 2025 at the age of 81. Cherished partner of Larry Green of Gravenhurst and predeceased by dear husband, Vaclav (Vince) Runza.  Ivana is survived by her children Kathy Clark (Adam) of Toronto and Jane Drew (Steve) of St Thomas; grandchildren Kaila, Alyssa and Eliana Clark, Samantha and Brayden Drew; step grandchildren Amanda Fisher (Brad), Emily Huver (Chris) and Stevie Drew (Steph).  Ivana will be immeasurably missed by sister Eva Vomacka (Ivan) and nieces Susan Williamson (Frank) & Daniela Graham (Ken), and nephew Paul Vomacka (Amanda), and their children.

Ivana was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia and came to Canada in 1969 with her family as a political refugee to start a better life.  She met her beloved husband Vaclav in St. Thomas.  She was proud of her career in banking and then running Ramona’s Delicatessen with Vaclav.  In addition to being busy as a small business owner and raising a family, Ivana also embarked with Vaclav and sister Eva & brother-in-law Ivan, owning several rental properties in St. Thomas and Calgary.  Ivana & Vaclav travelled the world and they introduced Kathy & Jane to travelling, with some of their best family memories made on holidays.  After Vaclav’s passing (2007), she met her devoted partner Larry and together they enjoyed each other’s companionship, travelling and spending time with family in both Gravenhurst and St. Thomas.

Special thanks to the Nurses & PSWs at Care Partners for their extraordinary expertise and compassionate care, which allowed Ivana to stay at home in her final days.  Special thanks to Dr. David Dougherty for his long-time care to Ivana over the years. 

Visitation will be held at the Shawn Jackson Funeral Home, 31 Elgin Street, St. Thomas (519-631-0570) on Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. with a memorial service held at 3:00 p.m. in the chapel, with refreshments to follow.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Fibromyalgia Association of Canada (www.fibrocanada.ca) or the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. Personal condolences to the family can be made at www.sjfh.ca