It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Phyllis Sydney Pighin on June 29th, 2025, at the age of 82.

Phyllis was born on May 7th, 1943, in Medicine Hat Alberta, to Phillip and Marjorie Rombough. In 1953, her family moved to Cranbrook, where she would later meet the love of her life, Elliott Pighin, at the age of 16. They were married on April 23rd, 1960, and soon began their family, welcoming Jo-ann, Tony, Lynn, and Connie.

In 1972, Phyllis and Elliott purchased a ranch in Fort Steele, which became their cherished home. Two years later, Phyllis began working at Fort Steele Historic Park as a janitor while attending evening accounting classes at East Kootenay College. Her dedication and talent led her to become the financial manager for BC Parks and Recreation, the Department of Highways, Forestry, and the Ministry of Health.

After retiring in 2002, Phyllis and Elliott embraced their love for travel. They spent many winters in Mexico and also explored Australia, New Zealand, Italy, and Alaska. Phyllis loved to reminisce about their adventures and the memories they created together.

A woman of many talents, Phyllis had a deep passion for sewing and later, quilting. She lovingly crafted a special quilt for each of her grandchildren. Her garden was another source of pride, providing food for the family year-round through her skillful canning. She was an excellent cook with the ability to feed a large group of people with ease. Her wonderful baked goods were enjoyed by all, especially the grandchildren who knew when they were going to grandma’s that there would always be goodies waiting for them. One of Phyllis’s grandchildren referred to her as the “The Bakerman”.

Phyllis had a wit about her that could take you by surprise. Her ability to find the silver lining in any situation, and her unwavering positivity. Even in her most difficult moments, she would say, “I’m fine,” and when things would go sideways for whatever reason, without a doubt she would say, “it’s a good thing that happened, because…”

She had a special bond with animals, especially dogs, and in her later years, her beloved dog “Teddy” was a constant companion.

Phyllis was a kind, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her husband Elliott Pighin, son Tony (Debbie) Pighin, daughters Jo-ann (Greg) Reimer, Lynn, and Connie (Leo) Hazenbberg; grandchildren Tanya (Ryan), Amy (Len), Katie, Becky (Steve), Lane (Jaycee), Kristyn, Colton, Dalton (Lindee), Kyle (Carley), and Duane; and great-grandchildren Zachery, Elliott, Luke, Abby, Jasper, Quinn, Thane, John, Andi, Tripp, Corbin, Avery, Jordie, and Wesley.

Elliott and Connie would like to express their gratitude to Interior Heath Palliative care home support. A special thank you to Amy and Debbie for help and advice.  All the residents of Kootenay Street Village, as well all of those who have expressed their love and support through their cards and condolences.

A Memorial Mass for Phyllis will take place on Monday July 21, 2025 at Christ The Servant Church in Cranbrook at 11 AM. A Reception will follow at the Lost Creek Ranch from 2 – 5 PM. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Red Cross.