The family of Marlis Treadwell (nee Kruppa) announce her sudden and peaceful passing at Brightshores Health Systems, Owen Sound, on Saturday September 6, 2025, at age 84. She is now reunited with her Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Lovingly remembered by her children Peter Treadwell (Lisa Whittaker) of Toronto, Martin Treadwell of Chatsworth, Lydia Treadwell (Josh Bizjak) of Ottawa, and Christa Treadwell (Courtney Parks) of Woodford, and by her grandchildren Henry, Evelyn, and Wesley. Dear sister of Hilde Zoller. She will be fondly remembered by her nieces Suzanne (Ralph) and Annette Zoller. Predeceased by her husband John Treadwell, parents Ernst and Maria Kruppa (nee Kaminsky), nephew Arnd, and brother-in-law Friedrich.

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Born in East Prussia, Marlis’s life was shaped by faith and perseverance from an early age. At just three  and a half years old, she and her family fled their homeland on the Eastern front of Germany during World War II, surviving a torpedo attack and spending four years in a refugee camp in Oksbol, Denmark. While many would recall hardship, Marlis remembered the camp as a “giant sandbox,” and the happiest days of her life—–a glimpse into the eternal optimism and joyful disposition that defined her. 

Jesus Christ was her Savior, and she believed deeply in the power of prayer. Her faith guided her every step, from teaching Sunday school to serving as a missionary for two years in over fourteen countries. Even in her final years, she dedicated her life to serving and helping others.

Marlis met her husband John Treadwell in India and soon joined him in his home of Canada. She then spent her career as owner and operator of the Chatsworth Retirement Home, offering seniors a comfortable environment in a family setting. Retiring in a rural setting, she reignited a deep connection with nature. She cleared paths, gathered mushrooms, persevered and succeeded at her vegetable garden and lived by her belief that “food is medicine” and that “people with gardens live longer.”

A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Marlis was dedicated to her family. Committed to always feeding hungry mouths, all celebrations were known for her famous cheesecakes, pies, cookies and, fruit tarts.

Plucky, energetic, and eternally optimistic, Marlis faced life’s challenges with grace and never an inkling of a complaint. With a spark in her eyes and a smile on her face, she lifted those around her with joy and perseverance.

She will be remembered with love and admiration by all who were blessed to know her.

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Cremation has taken place and arrangements entrusted to the Garafraxa Hill Funeral Home, Chatsworth. A Celebration of Life service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Friday September 12, at 12 noon, Rev. Dr. Randy Benson officiating. Interment to follow at Shiloh Cemetery, Chatsworth. The family wish to extend their sincere thanks to the staff at Central Place for the kind and compassionate care extended to Marlis. If desired, donations to St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, Chatsworth, would be appreciated by the family. Online condolences may be expressed at www.garafraxahillfuneral.com