May 11, 1949 – August 9, 2023
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mercedes Urias with family by her side at the age of 74 years. She will be lovingly remembered by her two treasured daughters, Vanessa (David), Erica (Azuka) and her three adored grandchildren, Isaiah, Isabel and Saul. A woman of boundless generosity, unwavering dedication, and endless love, she embodied the essence of a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, godmother and friend. Mercedes is survived by her siblings, Jesus, Melida, Vicente, Amancia, Manuel and Vicky. She was predeceased by parents, Vicente Urias and Maria Victoria Villalobos.
Mercedes’s commitment to her loved ones knew no bounds whether it was taking care of her family, supporting friends, or lending a helping hand to those in need. As a mother, she was a guiding light for her daughters, instilling in them the values of kindness, perseverance, and empathy that she held dear. As a grandmother, her eyes would light up with an unmatched joy whenever she was around them, showing them love and quiet wisdom. Her ability to connect across generations showcased her timeless spirit and genuine warmth. Over the course of her life, she built and held many close relationships for which she will be remembered by many as a dear friend.
Mercedes was born in Cerro Colorado Chihuahua, Mexico, before fearlessly traveling to Canada in 1975, in search of a better life. From the time she arrived in Canada Mercedes, a warrior, exhibited a tireless work ethic that became a defining aspect of her character, which extended to every facet of her life. She worked as a dedicated employee at Dunn-Rite Food Products for over 45 years, an accomplishment and sacrifice she took great pride in.
Mercedes was a woman of deep Catholic faith, who loved God, her family, her church and her parish community. This past February, she fulfilled her lifelong dream of traveling to Israel, alongside fellow parishioners and friends. There, in the Holy Land, Mercedes renewed her commitment to her faith by bathing in the River Jordan and visiting the many biblical landmarks that held special significance for her.
One of Mercedes’s greatest passions was cooking, a skill she mastered and shared with those around her. Her kitchen was a gathering place for both celebratory occasions with elaborate meals or day-to-day, simple comfort foods. Her cooking served as a way to bring people together to share many special moments which brought her joy, happiness and satisfaction.
As we mourn her passing, let us remember her as a beacon of love and kindness. Her gentle spirit lives on in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known her. May her memory continue to inspire us to embrace life’s challenges with a generous heart, a strong work ethic, and the unwavering love that defined Mercedes’s life.
We would like to thank the staff at Cancer Care Manitoba.
A memorial service to commemorate the life of Mercedes was held at Thompson “In the Park” Funeral Home on Friday, August 18th – 1291 McGillivray Boulevard, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
A funeral mass for Mercedes was held on Saturday, August 19th at Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción at 200 Kenny Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Her remains were entombed at St. Gianna Beretta Molla Roman Catholic Church & Living Waters Columbarium at 15 Columbia Drive, Winnipeg, Manitoba.