Chareka, Dr. Ottilia, 42, Antigonish, passed away March 16, 2011, in St. Martha's Regional Hospital, Antigonish.

When I succeed, I thank God and when I fail I ask for his grace. Love, joy, peace, patience and self-control I commit to my day - Max Lucado

It was by these words that Dr. Ottilia Chareka lived her life, and this was one of the messages that she passed on to her five beautiful daughters. Ottilia was born in Bikita, Province of Masvingo, Zimbabwe on May 2, 1968 where she attended public school, was a star netball player, and initially set out to pursue a career in agriculture. Thanks to an inspirational teacher, Ottilia veered from this path and pursued a career in education, graduating from Gweru Teacher’s College in her early 20’s. After graduation she moved to Canada and pursued a Diploma in Advanced Undergraduate Studies (Social Studies), a Master of Education, and eventually a PhD, all at the University of New Brunswick. Her doctoral studies focused on the role of democratic participation of recent African immigrants in Canada. This was the beginning of a passionate journey exploring citizenship, democracy, inclusion, and social justice. These were the foundations of both her teaching and her scholarly research, which was recognized nationally and internationally through her many publications. She joined the Faculty of Education at St. Francis Xavier University in 2005, and quickly became known for her exuberance, her passion, and her ability to inspire students and everyone she met. She was a sought-after speaker, giving inspirational addresses throughout Atlantic Canada. Many students credit Ottilia with igniting their passions for social justice and transformation, and inspiring them to pursue their research interests. She was beloved by her students and colleagues alike.

Ottilia was active in the University community, generously serving on such committees as the University Senate, Committee for Aboriginal and Black Student Success, and Academic Priorities and Planning Committee. Most recently she was nominated to the Research Advisory Board of St FX. She was a driving force in the implementation of the new Bachelor of Education program for African Nova Scotians and played a significant role in the inception and advancement of the Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey School Success initiative. Beyond this, she was active in the community, as a member of the Grace Community Church and the St Andrew Junior School Advisory Council, and maintained a leadership role within the African Diaspora Association of the Maritimes.

Some of Ottilia’s greatest joys were being a soccer mom, a super fan for her daughters’ various sporting events, and traveling with her girls on their various adventures. Together they traveled to London, England and throughout Eastern Canada and had an insatiable curiosity for place and culture. She kept close connections with her family in Zimbabwe. She supported many educational endeavours, provided financial support for several nieces and nephews, and motivated her younger sisters to pursue an education. In her own words: "My main hope was to inspire my sisters and all other women in the community I come from."

Ottilia is survived by daughters Missy "Praymore", 23; Patience, 18; Patricia, 16; Primrose, 14; and Prisca, 3. She is also survived by both her parents and many siblings. She will be greatly missed by her community, faculty members, students, peers, family, extended family and most of all, her daughters.

Visitation will be Saturday, March 19, at the C.L. Curry Funeral Home, 135 College Street, Antigonish from 2 - 4 and 7 -9 pm. Funeral service will be held Sunday at the St FX University Chapel at 2pm, with Reverend Harvey Martell and Reverend Daniel MacLennan presiding. Burial in Zimbabwe at a later date.

Family flowers only please.

In lieu of flowers, a Memorial Fund for the Children of Ottilia Chareka has been established at the Bergengren Credit Union in Antigonish, account number 50623-112 and transit number 80143-839.  For cheque writing purposes, this can be shortened to Children of Ottilia Chareka or Memorial Fund for Ottilia Chareka.

The Bergengren Credit Union can process donations as long as Ottilia's name is in the title.

Cheques can be sent to:

Faculty of Education,St. Francis Xavier University,PO Box 5000, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5

or to

Minnie van de Wiel, Deposit Administration Clerk, Bergengren Credit Union, 257 Main Street Antigonish NS B2G 2C1.

Donations may also be made directly to the family:

Cheques can be made payable to Missy Chareka.  Mail to: 135 College St., Antigonish, NS B2G 1X9

Online condolences:  www.clcurry.com