Dr. Ena Agnes RUDOVICS
Dr. Ena Agnes Rudovics
Dec 1st, 1953 – August 10th, 2024
Our beloved Ena Rudovics passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the young age of 70.
Ena was known for her love of learning, her sharp wit, remarkable memory, and a commonsensical disposition that enabled her to handle any problem quickly and efficiently. She was an avid reader, an enthusiastic traveler, a passionate fan of the arts, and a formidable crossword puzzle savant. She was possessed of such an insatiable curiosity about people and their lives that her family frequently remarked that she would have made an excellent spy or detective. Instead, she chose to follow her mother in the equally exciting career of dentistry.
A graduate of the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Dentistry, she worked and volunteered internationally until an arm injury forced her to sell her practice. But early retirement never slowed her down as she devoted her time to raising her children and turning her organizational prowess towards the good of the community. As the eldest daughter of Latvian immigrants who had been displaced during WWII, she had a deep and abiding respect for all things heritage and tradition. She grew up speaking Latvian and served as the Honorary Consul of Latvia to Alberta and President of the Latvian Society of Edmonton IMANTA for many years.
Her clever humour and ability to lead quietly from the sidelines will be greatly missed by those who were fortunate enough to have known her. She is predeceased by her parents, Stanley and Dr. Anna Rudovics, her brother Nils, and survived by her sister Dr. Venta Rudovics, her husband Thomas Murrle, and her children Andrea and Felix.
Eulogy
by Felix Murrle
The day after my mom passed, my sister and I were driving to the lake to meet our dad for dinner when, as luck would have it, the podcast that started playing turned out to be about grief. The host was taking a break from her usual weekly content to announce that her father had recently passed away, and to reflect on what she’d been going through. One of the questions she raised is the question of how long it takes after someone dies for us to reduce them to a handful of relatively generic token sentences: ‘he was smart’; ‘she was great at her job’; ‘they loved their family.’ All these things can be true without conveying anything much about the person at all: we are many of us smart, good at our jobs, and caring – and indeed Ena was all those things – but who was she really? And how do we begin to do justice to a life that is infinitely richer than any of us could ever know?
When I learned that my mother’s cancer had returned, I wanted something to hold on to – some kind of record of her legacy. But it quickly became apparent that in some ways this would be an impossible task. Not only did she have seemingly innumerable connections of her own, but – and in part because of those connections – she was also a keeper of countless stories not necessarily hers. In her we have not only lost someone pragmatic, kind, and dependable, but a link to things past that no one else remembers. We are left with our own memories, and a few facts about her life.
Those facts go something like this: Ena Agnes Rudovics was born on December 1st, 1953, the eldest daughter of Stan and Anna Rudovics, Latvian immigrants who had fled the Soviet occupation of their homeland. She was born in Edmonton at a time when milk was still delivered by horse-drawn carriage, and the suburbs – not even paved – barely stretched past the University of Alberta farms. She spoke Latvian at home and did her schooling in French; at some point she learned German, and eventually became so fluent that, years later, she would be able to occasionally correct the grammar of her husband, himself a native German speaker. She went to the University of Alberta and studied dentistry. When she graduated, she worked at her mother’s practice, and took it over when Anna retired. She traveled a lot – Europe, the Americas, Asia – and did volunteer work abroad. In the 80s, she met my dad, Thomas, through their parents. They married in 1989, and had me and my sister a couple of years later. Although she suffered an injury to her arm that forced her to early retirement, she never slowed down. Instead, she devoted her time to raising us and various forms of community service – especially where it concerned Latvian affairs. She spent many years on the board of the Edmonton Latvian Society IMANTA, and served as its president for a while. She was named Honorary Consul of Latvia to Alberta, and two weeks before her death on August 10th of this year, she received a certificate from the government of Latvia recognizing her contributions to the promotion of relations between Latvia and Canada. She loved flowers, she loved to read, she loved to swim. She loved a good glass of bubbly. She worked hard, but always put her family first; she demanded excellence, but held herself to the same standard. As I’m sure many of you know, it was hard to keep up.
A while ago, I read a book at the end of which I came across the phrase “the immense, silent legend of any girl’s life”. My mother’s legend is indeed both silent and immense. I will never know most of it. But the part that concerns me is enough: she is my mother, and I will miss her more than words will allow.
I began by mentioning that first day and the podcast we were listening to because in some ways it was a day like any other – we were all of us preoccupied and off doing our own thing. But then we sat down for dinner. It was the first time the three of us had shared a meal without her in a very long time – and it was then, when we were all together, that her loss was most keenly felt. Now that we’re here with all of you, I feel that loss only magnified.
The acclaimed architect Sir Christopher Wren was buried in the crypt at St. Paul’s Cathedral, which he designed. The last lines of his plaque read Lector, si monumentum requiris, circumspice; it translates to “reader, if you require a monument, look around you”. I invite you all to look around. Ena’s most exceptional ability was to connect with people, remember them, and to bring them together. We are her monument, not as obvious or lasting as a building, but more precious. It is one that will last as long as we continue to share our own stories and memories of her. So let these not be the last words spoken about her, let them be the first.
Ena will be missed by all who knew her. Her caring inquisitive nature was refreshing and engaging. I had wonderful visits and conversations with Ena. She always made me feel welcome like family.
My deepest condolences 💐 to you Thomas, Andrea, and Felix.
My heartfelt condolences to the Rudovics-Murrle family on the passing of Ena. I was one of the fortunate ones to have worked with her during her diplomatic career, and she quickly became one of my favourite people. Ena’s unique blend of positivity, wisdom, and humility touched countless lives and made the world a better place. She was an amazing soul whose legacy will continue to inspire us all. May you find strength and comfort in the wonderful memories you shared, and in knowing that her spirit lives on in each of us.
Dear Thomas, Andrea and Felix – By chance I just saw Andrea’s FB post and wanted to send my deepest condolences to you all. Andrea and Felix – you wouldn’t know me and I only saw photographs of you, But I have many good memories of times in Edmonton, the cottage and in Ottawa with Ena and also with Thomas.
May your many good memories (and I know that there are many) help you through this very difficult time. Blessings!
Anda
Ena was a part of my young adulthood and later in life we connected again with much joy and ease. I am deeply saddened by her passing and offer my condolences to Venta and Egils and family…
Our heartfelt love and condolences to Ena’s family.
She certainly left her mark on us after one week of being in Thailand together ❤️
Fly high Ena ✨️
From Linda & Ian UK
Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Ena. I was introduced to her many years ago when I first ran for parliament in Edmonton East, by August Osis, another Edmontonian and active member of the Latvian community. Have followed her community involvements and service ever since. She will be sorely missed.
The hole that Ena leaves in the fabric of our lives will require us to match her tremendous devotion to family and friends to mend. She is so missed.
Ena is missed. My deepest condolences to Thomas, Andrea and Felix. My condolences flow to all those whose lives she has touched. Ena and her thoughts will be missed by many and for a long time. Love
Ena will be so fondly remembered – over sixty years of friendship provides an abundance of warm memories. Her curiosity and common sense approach to life were such strengths. My heart goes out to Thomas, Andrea, Felix, Venta, Egils and Rachel and family.
Some people enter our lives for a short while and are imprinted indelibly in our memory. Ena was one of these special people. Condolences to Thomas, Andrea, Felix, family and friends.
My deepest condolences to you, Thomas, Andrea and Felix. I met Ena at Bonnie Doon Pool and thoroughly enjoyed our chats over the years. Once She offered good advice on some house renovations which proved to be very helpful. I enjoyed, and will remember, her openness, vitality, and kindness.
My deepest condolences and prayers to you, Thomas, Andrea and Felix. You are all in my prayers. May you be comforted by the loving care of our blessed Mother Mary. I enjoyed, and will remember, her openness, vitality, and kindness. May she rest in peace!
We’re truly heartbroken to hear about Ena’s passing. It’s so hard to believe that someone so full of life, has left us so soon.
Our thoughts are with Ena’s family (Thomas, Andera, and Felix) and all and every friend who truly adored her. She was and still is an amazing woman: she will be missed my many near and far.
Ena has been a lifelong friend. We first met when we were very young, 12 years old. Over the years we developed a meaningful friendship. With quiet pride she was a pillar of strength, character and leadership within our local and national Latvian community promoting and advocating our culture and heritage. Her memory is a blessing. My family’s deepest condolences and prayers to Thomas, Andrea, Felix, Venta, Egils and family.
We have lost such a wonderful family friend and community leader, words can not describe the pain. Our hearts goes out to Andrea, Felix and Thomas, Venta, Egils and family during this incredibly difficult time.
It’s clear that Ena was someone who touched the lives of so many, not just as a friend but also as a guiding light in the community. Ena’s kindness, leadership, and unwavering commitment will be missed deeply by all who were fortunate enough to know her. While no words can truly ease the pain of this loss, please know that we am here for you, and out thoughts and prayers are with you all.
May Ena’s legacy continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who loved her, may we all find peace in the cherished memories of the moments we have shared. Lai Enai vieglas smiltis. Lots of love, Nelda &family.
My deepest condolences to the family. Ena was a truly amazing person who touched the lives of many.
The Embassy of Latvia in Canada extends its deepest condolences on the passing of Dr. Ena Agnes Rudovics, Latvia’s long-term Honorary Consul in Edmonton, Alberta. Ena will be remembered for her vibrant personality, her kindness, her personal dedication to the promotion of Latvia’s and Canada’s relations and her essential role in upholding the Latvian culture and heritage in Canada. Ena will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her, including Ambassadors and Embassy staff who have been privileged to work with her over the years. Our heart goes out to her family and friends in this difficult time. Lai vieglas smiltis!
Ulrich, Rike and family,
We warmly remember ENA as sharpminded, witty and warm-hearted . At the rare occasions we spent together we felt her keen interest into people and topics like culture, arts and nature. We ll keep in our minds last year‘s short visit to Strasbourg, not knowing that it would be a lasting farewell.
Thomas, Felix and Andrea, take your time to cope with the grievance and loss. It may take time.
Please accept our heartfelt condolences to you, Thomas, Andrea and Felix. We were deeply saddened to hear about your loss. Words will not ease the pain you are feeling, but may fond memories of your Ena bring you comfort during this hard time in your life.
Our thoughts are with you and your family.
With sympathy,
The last time I chatted with Ena was at the Calgary Winter Olympics. Unsurprisingly, given her gracious and diplomatic nature, Ena had been task with escorting Juan Antonio Samaranch, the President of the IOC, over the course of the Olympics. We bumped into each other during the Games and I was graciously introduced to Mr. Samaranch. Afterwards, she and I exchanged a few words and said good bye. That brief encounter sums Ena up perfectly. Friendly, gracious, kind, diplomatic.
She is missed.
A very sad time for us who survive Ena. More time would have been beneficial for so many. What wonderful memories she has left with us. And what a marvellous life she has inspired us to emulate. My sincerest condolences to all who will miss her dearly. As I will. Sieze the day. Reach out to those you care for before it is too late. All my love.
I am from the Magnolia area and though I did not know Ena well, she left a lasting impression! She was an interesting person to talk to, always inquisitive and curious about new experiences. Confident with a good sense of humor, her company was appreciated by all of us with community events and the extra curricular activities like our nature walks. Prayers & love Thomas and her family for your deep loss!
Condolences to Thomas and the family on the loss of Ena. I got to know Ena through her visits to events at the Lithuanian community in Edmonton. She was always warm, easy to talk to, inquisitive, and positive. She gave me welcome advice and encouragement from her expansive leadership experience. For many years, Ena also came to pray with us at our monthly masses. May she now be welcomed into God’s embrace.
Our deepest sympathy to Thomas, Andrea, Felix and the rest of Ena’s extended family. Ena will be deeply missed. She was one of those rare people who was genuinely interested and aware of what was going on in the lives of others. She was smart, sympathetic, patriotic and a great leader for Imanta.
My sincere condolences to Thomas, Andrea and Felix. I met Ena many years ago here in Germany, with Thomas – who I know since more then 50 years- and their kids. It was very easy to become friend to Ena, she was so natural and emphatic. Then last year she and Thomas came again to Stuttgart and we could spend some sightseeing, talked a lot, I’m very thankful for knowing her. Rest in the glory of God.
We have lost an exceptional human being who brought a great light into all our lives.
Many years ago as a troubled young man in my twenties I spent some time with Ena and her family. We camped in the rockies and the majesty of the mountains helped make me feel insignificant. And the warmth and sense of fun from Ena and her family brought me home and helped to steer me on the right path. As one of my most fond memories I will never forget her and that time we spent together. Rest in peace Ena
I send my sincerest condolences to Thomas, Felix, Andrea, Venta, Egils, Rachel and family, and am deeply saddened by their loss. Ena’s mother and my mother attended dental school together in Latvia and were lifelong friends. In turn, I had the privilege and joy of meeting Ena when her family came to visit my family in Los Angeles when we were in our early teens, beginning our lifelong long-distance friendship. I was fortunate to see Ena and meet Thomas just a few years ago on their visit to Los Angeles. I spent a glorious afternoon with Ena, catching up about her family—how she met Thomas, how proud and close she was to her children, her warm relationship with her cousin Egils and his family, and sharing stories about our mothers—their strengths and abilities to overcome challenges–and her proud commitment to the Latvian community. Ena was a remarkable woman, as so beautifully and touchingly related in Felix’s eulogy and the condolences sent by so many. I will miss her but will always be grateful that I knew her and will be inspired by her joy, strength, positivity, sense of humor and commitment to all she loved.