Celebrating Tanya: A Life of Love and Resilience
Summary
Tanya Ann Edlec was a remarkable woman whose life was filled with love, dedication, and a deep connection to nature and animals. Born on July 6, 1974, in Horsham, she grew up with her siblings, Sharon and David, in a close-knit family. Tanya's early years were marked by her kindness, intelligence, and generosity, traits that endeared her to friends and family alike. Her passion for rowing in high school led to a lifelong friendship with Ruth, and later, a loving relationship with Peter, whom she married in 1999. Tanya embraced her role as a stepmother to Peter's daughters, Jacinta and Samantha, with grace and dedication, always encouraging them to be their best.
Tanya's professional life was equally impressive. She worked at the Horsham Telephone Exchange, the post office, Best Employment, and Uniting Care, before joining Grampians Community Health in 2019. Her colleagues admired her professionalism, dedication, and the genuine interest she took in their lives. Tanya's love for animals was well-known, from her childhood days of playing with chickens to her deep bond with horses. She was an active member of the Wimmera Equestrian Club and participated in various horse-related activities, forming lasting friendships along the way.
Tanya and Peter's move to their property in Haven allowed her to fully embrace her love of nature. They planted thousands of trees, creating a sanctuary for birds, lizards, and other wildlife. Tanya's joy in the outdoors extended to camping trips and bush walks with Peter, where they found solace in each other's company. Her sense of humor and playful spirit were evident in her interactions with friends and family, whether it was sneaking sugar sachets into her handbag or wrapping up colleagues' cars as a farewell gesture.
In early 2021, Tanya was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing intense treatment, she remained focused on ensuring Peter was prepared for life without her. Her final act of love was rehoming her beloved horses, Owen and Digger, ensuring they would be well cared for. Tanya's passing was peaceful, surrounded by the nature she loved, with her cat Tia on her lap and Peter by her side. Her legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew her and in the new iris cultivar named "Tanya's Keeper," a living tribute to her love of nature.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Kindness and Generosity: Tanya's life was a testament to the impact of kindness and generosity. Her ability to put others ahead of herself and her genuine care for those around her created lasting bonds and deep friendships. This reminds us that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on the lives of others. [39:47]
2. Embracing Roles with Grace: Tanya's transition into the role of a stepmother and her dedication to her professional responsibilities highlight the importance of embracing new roles with grace and commitment. Her ability to support and encourage those around her, even in challenging circumstances, serves as an inspiration to approach our own roles with the same dedication. [40:58]
3. Connection to Nature: Tanya's deep connection to nature and her efforts to create a sanctuary for wildlife on her property in Haven illustrate the importance of nurturing and preserving the natural world. Her love for the outdoors and her joy in simple pleasures like birdwatching and bush walks remind us to find peace and fulfillment in nature. [47:17]
4. Humor and Playfulness: Tanya's sense of humor and playful spirit brought joy to those around her. Whether it was sneaking sugar sachets into her handbag or wrapping up colleagues' cars, her ability to find humor in everyday situations reminds us to not take life too seriously and to find joy in the little things. [50:18]
5. Facing Adversity with Strength: Tanya's battle with cancer and her efforts to ensure her loved ones were prepared for life without her demonstrate incredible strength and resilience. Her ability to face adversity with grace and to focus on the well-being of others, even in her final days, serves as a powerful example of selflessness and courage. [52:02]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[38:41] - Early Life and Family
[39:13] - School Years and Rowing
[39:47] - Friendship with Ruth
[40:19] - Relationship with Peter
[40:58] - Role as a Stepmother
[41:32] - Professional Life
[43:17] - Dedication to Work
[43:50] - Love for Animals
[45:35] - Equestrian Activities
[46:40] - Life in Haven
[47:17] - Connection to Nature
[48:33] - Outdoor Adventures
[49:41] - Humor and Playfulness
[52:02] - Battle with Cancer
[55:03] - Living Memorial: Tanya's Keeper
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 31:20 - "She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy."
2. 1 Peter 4:10 - "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."
3. Psalm 104:24 - "How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures."
#### Observation Questions
1. What were some of the key traits that defined Tanya's character according to her friends and family? [39:47]
2. How did Tanya's love for nature manifest in her daily life and activities? [47:17]
3. What were some of the humorous and playful actions Tanya was known for? [50:18]
4. How did Tanya prepare her loved ones for life without her during her battle with cancer? [52:02]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does Tanya's life exemplify the virtues described in Proverbs 31:20? In what ways did she extend her kindness and generosity to others? [39:47]
2. Reflect on 1 Peter 4:10. How did Tanya use her gifts and talents to serve others in her professional and personal life? [42:40]
3. Considering Psalm 104:24, how did Tanya's connection to nature reflect her appreciation for God's creation? [47:17]
4. What can we learn from Tanya's sense of humor and playful spirit about finding joy in everyday situations? [50:18]
#### Application Questions
1. Tanya's life was marked by kindness and generosity. What are some small acts of kindness you can incorporate into your daily routine to positively impact those around you? [39:47]
2. Tanya embraced her role as a stepmother with grace and dedication. Are there new roles or responsibilities in your life that you need to approach with more commitment and support? How can you do this? [40:58]
3. Tanya found peace and fulfillment in nature. How can you make time to connect with nature in your own life? What specific activities can you plan to appreciate God's creation? [47:17]
4. Tanya's sense of humor brought joy to those around her. How can you incorporate more humor and playfulness into your interactions with others? Can you think of a recent situation where a light-hearted approach could have made a difference? [50:18]
5. Tanya faced her battle with cancer with strength and resilience. How do you handle adversity in your life? What steps can you take to focus on the well-being of others even during challenging times? [52:02]
6. Tanya's final act of love was ensuring her horses were well cared for. Is there something important to you that you need to prepare for or take care of to ensure it is in good hands? [52:38]
7. Tanya's legacy lives on in the memories of those who knew her. What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind? What actions can you take now to build that legacy? [55:03]
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Kindness and Generosity
Tanya Ann Edlec's life was a testament to the impact of kindness and generosity. Her ability to put others ahead of herself and her genuine care for those around her created lasting bonds and deep friendships. Tanya's kindness was evident from her early years, marked by her intelligence and generosity, which endeared her to friends and family alike. Her professional life also reflected this trait, as she took a genuine interest in the lives of her colleagues and was admired for her dedication and professionalism. Tanya's small acts of kindness, whether in her personal or professional life, had a profound impact on those around her, reminding us that even the smallest gestures can make a significant difference. [39:47]
Ephesians 4:32 (ESV): "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Reflection: Think of a small act of kindness you can do for someone today. How can you make it a habit to show genuine care and generosity in your daily interactions?
Day 2: Embracing Roles with Grace
Tanya's transition into the role of a stepmother and her dedication to her professional responsibilities highlight the importance of embracing new roles with grace and commitment. When Tanya married Peter in 1999, she embraced her role as a stepmother to his daughters, Jacinta and Samantha, with grace and dedication. She always encouraged them to be their best, supporting and nurturing them as if they were her own. In her professional life, Tanya's colleagues admired her for her professionalism and the genuine interest she took in their lives. Her ability to support and encourage those around her, even in challenging circumstances, serves as an inspiration to approach our own roles with the same dedication and grace. [40:58]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: Reflect on a new role or responsibility you have recently taken on. How can you embrace it with grace and dedication, supporting and encouraging those around you?
Day 3: Connection to Nature
Tanya's deep connection to nature and her efforts to create a sanctuary for wildlife on her property in Haven illustrate the importance of nurturing and preserving the natural world. Tanya and Peter's move to their property in Haven allowed her to fully embrace her love of nature. They planted thousands of trees, creating a sanctuary for birds, lizards, and other wildlife. Tanya's joy in the outdoors extended to camping trips and bush walks with Peter, where they found solace in each other's company. Her love for the outdoors and her joy in simple pleasures like birdwatching and bush walks remind us to find peace and fulfillment in nature, nurturing and preserving the natural world around us. [47:17]
Psalm 104:24-25 (ESV): "O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom have you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great."
Reflection: Spend some time outdoors today, whether it's a walk in the park or sitting in your garden. Reflect on the beauty of God's creation and consider how you can contribute to preserving and nurturing the natural world.
Day 4: Humor and Playfulness
Tanya's sense of humor and playful spirit brought joy to those around her. Whether it was sneaking sugar sachets into her handbag or wrapping up colleagues' cars as a farewell gesture, her ability to find humor in everyday situations reminds us to not take life too seriously and to find joy in the little things. Tanya's playful spirit was evident in her interactions with friends and family, bringing laughter and light-heartedness to those around her. Her sense of humor and ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life serve as a reminder to embrace a playful spirit and to find joy in the little things, even in the midst of life's challenges. [50:18]
Proverbs 17:22 (ESV): "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
Reflection: Think of a way to bring joy and laughter to someone in your life today. How can you incorporate a playful spirit into your daily routine, finding joy in the little things?
Day 5: Facing Adversity with Strength
Tanya's battle with cancer and her efforts to ensure her loved ones were prepared for life without her demonstrate incredible strength and resilience. In early 2021, Tanya was diagnosed with cancer. Despite undergoing intense treatment, she remained focused on ensuring Peter was prepared for life without her. Her final act of love was rehoming her beloved horses, Owen and Digger, ensuring they would be well cared for. Tanya's ability to face adversity with grace and to focus on the well-being of others, even in her final days, serves as a powerful example of selflessness and courage. Her strength and resilience in the face of adversity remind us to approach our own challenges with the same grace and determination. [52:02]
2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV): "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."
Reflection: Reflect on a current challenge or adversity you are facing. How can you approach it with strength and resilience, focusing on the well-being of others and trusting in God's eternal plan?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "Peter said he was so proud. Of how as a young woman. She was able to take on her new role. While he was working on night shift. Driving taxis. Tanya would be home. Helping the girls with their homework. Listening to their school woes. And gently encouraging them. To be their best." [40:58] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Tanya's affection for animals was well known. And she had loved animals. Since she was a little girl. Sooks were an early favourite. And aged three. She would sit out in the backyard. Playing a guitar to the family chickens. This progressed to taking them for rides. On the back of her trike. Down the footpath. Much to the amazement of those driving past." [43:50] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Tanya and Peter. Have planted thousands of trees. And Peter has a few sitting in pots. Waiting to go out into the garden. This spring. They lost a few trees. During the devastating Black Saturday fires. But simply started planting again. This treed environment. Meant their home became a bird haven. Visited by parrots. Willy Wagtails. Blue faced honey eaters. And wrens. But also lizards. Kangaroos. Bats. Which Tanya was happy to let nest in an old saddle in the shed. And the occasional snake." [47:17] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Peter recalled how. On more than one occasion. When they were in the Grampians. They would drive 30 kilometres into Halls Gap. For a chai latte. At Stoney Creek stores. Spotting the large crowds. And the lines. They would look at each other. Agree that they could do without the chai latte. Get back in their car. And return to their campsite." [49:08] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Peter said Tanya was his best friend. And they had a relationship of mutual respect. Friendship and trust. And Tanya had wanted to make the milestone. Of their 30 years together. Tanya inherited the Edlick family love. Of a gentle tease. And many of her friends recalled. Her bright and cheeky smile. Her sense of humour. And cackling laugh. Which was so well known and infectious. That even our pet cockatoo mimicked it." [49:41] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "Her colleague and friend Alison. Said that Tan excelled in all the roles. Which came her way. Over the years. She was HR Officer. Fleet Officer. Disability Administration. And Support Officer. Alison said Tan accepted all tasks. Graciously and professionally. In 2019. Tanya joined Grampians Community Health. As a Human Resources Officer. Taking on the task of payroll. Until she became ill. And then assisted with administration. She became great friends. With her boss Gwen. Who was so supportive of Tanya. When she became unwell. And went out of her way. To have work for her. Even if it was just a few hours a week." [42:40] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "In early 2021. Tanya was diagnosed with cancer. She went through the strongest chemo. Several operations. Hospitals a days. When she was given her final prognosis at Christmas. She began putting her life in order. And doing her best to make sure. Peter was prepared for his life. To be together. Including leaving a handwritten note. For him to. Please not sweat the small stuff. Her most heartbreaking task. Was to rehome her beloved horses. Peter said it was of the utmost importance. To Tanya. That Owen and Digger were looked after. In her absence." [52:02] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Greg Little. CEO of Grampians Community Health. Said in his heartfelt message to staff. On Tanya's passing. We all have our special memories of Tan. A wife. A sister. A sister in law. An aunt. A niece. A cousin. A nan. And a friend. And I am so grateful to her friends and family. For sharing some of their fondest memories with me. To share with you. Our Tan was always great company. She had a wonderful sense of humour. Which endeared herself to family. Friends and colleagues." [53:46] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Peter lifted her out onto the veranda. Into a recliner. Overlooking her garden. Teaming with bird life. With the sun on her face. The wind on her cheeks. Her cat Tia on her lap. And holding her husbands hand. She gently passed away. Finally. Tanya was so honoured. And deeply moved. When Jodie said she would like to develop. And name a new cultivar of iris after her. Tanya has chosen the name. Tanya's keeper. Named for her horse called keeper. And although it is early days. Jodie says it will be a tall. Blue or green. Bearded iris. That will hopefully bloom this spring. A living memorial of our beloved Tan." [54:25] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "So to conclude. A poem. That for me sums up Tanya's love of nature. And how we can remember her. When that new flower. Tanya's keeper blooms. Come to the meadow to visit me. Adapted from a poem. By Lorena Brown. Come to the meadow to visit me. Down by the roots of a tree. Waste not your tears. On the stone cold graves. Water a flower for me. Give me to the earth. When my winter comes. Bury me deep in the ground. Mark not my place. With statues or caves. Find me where life can be found." [55:03] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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