Alice Gélinas, 95, of St Paul, MN, passed away on July 02, 2025,  6-years after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

Born on May 20, 1930, in St. Boniface, Manitoba, Canada, Alice was the third of five children born to Irène and Clodomir Gélinas. She experienced profound loss early in life—losing her mother at the age of six and her father at eighteen—but carried forward with resilience and determination that would define her remarkable journey.

In 1949, Alice began her studies in nursing at St. Boniface Hospital. Upon graduating in 1953, she was awarded a prestigious scholarship to Will’s Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. There, she specialized in ophthalmology and became fluent in English—adding to her native French. In 1954, she relocated to the Twin Cities, employed at Miller Hospital (now United), remaining in the USA for the duration of her life. Alice became a naturalized US citizen in 1959, later reclaiming dual citizenship with Canada. Her mastery of both languages was a lifelong hallmark.

Alice married Dick Liska in 1957, together raised 4-children, and enjoyed adventure whether constructing a new home, entertaining, or traveling throughout their 30-year marriage.

Alice’s career was marked by both compassion and leadership. After years devoted to raising her family, she returned to nursing in 1979 with renewed purpose. Drawing on her ophthalmic expertise and visionary spirit, she became Executive Director of the Joint Commission on Allied Health Personnel in Ophthalmology (JCAHPO). In this role—held until her retirement in 1998—she played a pivotal part in shaping national standards for allied health professionals in eye care.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alice lived a life rich with culture and connection. She was known for her gourmet cooking and appreciation of fine wine, often bringing people together around a beautifully set table. Her garden flourished under her care, as did her enduring love for the arts—especially through her support of the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra (SPCO).

In retirement, Alice continued to make meaningful contributions to the community. As a trusted partner of the Minnesota Historical Society (MNHS), she meticulously translated archived French documents with precision and care. Once that monumental task was complete, she turned her talents toward outreach—becoming MNHS’ top seller of memberships and training staff across the state. In recognition of these efforts, she was honored with a lifetime membership.

Alice will be remembered not only for her intellect and style but also for her wit and deep love for family. She leaves behind four children: Dave Liska (Bonnie), Dan Liska (Mary Beth), Emilie Valenti, and Anne Louise Liska; grandchildren: Ben (Dani), Casey (Whitney), Jackie (Jacob), and Lily; and great-grandsons: Miles and Asher, as well as many nieces and nephews in Canada and the US.  

She was predeceased by all four of her siblings—Cécile, Denis, Laurette, and Lucienne, and step-sisters, Germaine and Yvonne. 

A profound thank you to her care team in the Arbor of Presbyterian Homes’ Lexington Landing during her last 3-years, as well as her Optum hospice caregivers. 

At Alice's request, the immediate family will have a private celebration of life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Minnesota Historical Society or the Alzheimer's Association in her honor.

May Alice’s memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved her. 

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