In the world of flowers, roses are bold. They immediately grab your attention and say “Here I am, look at me”. Then there are those flowers that bloom unobtrusively in the background - tiny wild violets that grow amongst the fall grasses. Beautiful in their own right, but unassuming. They are modest, not wanting to be the center of attention.

Such was the work of Linda Leppik, a long-time congregation member. It was Linda who came to church early in the mornings to set up coffee for all kinds of meetings. She walked to church, carrying heavy bags filled with baking she’d done, sandwich fixings, and cartons of cream and sugar, in the rain or shine. Whenever she was asked, she always said yes. She was reliable, and consistent.

Born Linda Sepp, her story is much the same as that of other Estonians, fleeing by boat from Estonia, living in Sweden for a time, then coming to Canada. She became a widow at the age of 48, in her prime, and was the sole provider for her two children. Life for a single woman is not easy. All of us need to feel that our life has meaning and that we contribute to our community in some way. Contributing to St. Peter’s was important for Linda. I shall forever remember Linda’s happy smiling face as we met at the church each Sunday. I never heard her say an unkind word to anyone. She was there to help the church – a true, loving volunteer.

I was happy to meet up with Linda and her daughter, son, daughter-in-law, and Lehta Greenbaum on behalf of the St. Peter’s Ladies Guild, to celebrate her 100th birthday in the courtyard of her temporary Long-term care home on August 3rd. Greetings also came from Alar Karis, Estonia’s President.

Austatud Linda Leppik,
Palun võtke vastu minu südamest tulevad õnnitlused Teie sajanda sünnipäeva puhul.

Olete oma elus palju näinud ja kogenud, olete saanud kaasa elada terve sajandi rõõmudele ja muredele ning alati hoidnud alal lootust. Mul on hea meel, et Teil on jätkunud elurõõmu jagada seda kõike ka noorematega.

Soovin Teile tervist ja palju õnne.

How can one say thank you for all you’ve done for St. Peter’s - words are not enough. Thank you, thank you Linda! Happy 100th birthday from the Ladies Guild, Executive, and St. Peter’s congregation members!

Tiiu Roiser

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