December 2, 1957 – March 29, 2013
Suddenly, at her residence on Good Friday, March 29, 2013, our beautiful and precious Marie left this world to soar with God’s Angels. Marie will be forever cherished and remembered by her husband of over 30 years, Frank, sister Patricia (Gordon) of St. John, NB; niece Sharlene (Shane) and great-nephew Drew of Victoria, BC; nephew Shawn (Nicole) and great-nephews, Nico and Gabriel of Edmonton, AB, Aunt Anne of Lansing, IL, as well as many treasured and special cousins. Marie joins in heaven her cherished parents Olga and William, many aunts and uncles, and all others who went before that touched her life.
Where does one begin to define the beautiful soul and spirit that was Marie? For all of us who had the blessing of crossing Marie’s path and being touched by her, we all have the same words to describe her: caring, giving, empathetic, embracing, joyful, happy, positive, spiritual, and most important…..loving! Marie would often say, “the only reason any of us are here is to love each other and help one another”. As a tribute to Marie, let us all take her life mantra and practice it with the same passion she had. And who can ever forget Marie’s laugh? It resonated with joy and it was her. And anyone who knew Marie will always remember her as a fashionista’….her style with flair and appearance was always important to her! Marie’s ability to touch lives in such a special and unique way was natural for her. This was her gift that she freely and willingly gave to others.
Marie’s love for her career and profession as a pharmacist must be mentioned. It truly was a real life passion and love for her. And she did it with such professionalism, integrity and care. To all her colleagues who worked with her at Geri-aid, including Jane Alderdice, Leslie Carrington, and Brian Tazumi, please know you were never just a working colleague, but were special friends to her. Marie loved you all!
Important to mention are all the nurses, physicians, administrators and other personnel at Marie’s nursing homes. She cared and loved you as well. Thank you to Dr. Karen van de Meuller…..a very special woman who was Marie’s colleague and good friend! Marie was blessed with so many beautiful friends that it is impossible to list everyone, but you know who you are. Special mention to Marietta, Donna-May, Fran, Joan, Debbie, Val, Dawn, Heather James, Heather Neilson, Penny, Maria, Susie and Par.
Marie always said that if she passed, she would not prefer a service, but rather a party in the future to remember her where memories are not of grief, but rather laughter and joy. As such, her request is being honoured and respected. Cremation has taken place. Donations please, in her honour, to Siloam Mission or The Winnipeg Humane Society. Look for Marie’s spirit in a sunset, in nature, in the skies where there are stars and the moon shines brightly, and for a rainbow full of vibrant colours! Remember her at these times, as that will be your tribute to her! She is with us forever in spirit and love! ”
`For what is it to die, but to stand in the sun and melt into the wind? And when the Earth has claimed our limbs, then we shall truly dance! – Prophet Kahlil Gibran.
Soar with the birds, our beloved Marie! Always remembered, always cherished, always present!