MISS MARJORIE MURDOCK

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MISS MARJORIE MURDOCK May 24, 2008 Our dear little Marjorie died early on the morning of May 24 at Golden West Centennial Lodge. She departed peacefully into the arms of God. She is survived by her sister Vera Gilmour and her two nieces Violet Halicki of Winnipeg and Alyce Anderson of Wabush Labrador. There are eight grandnieces and nephews living in various parts of Canada. Marjorie was the youngest of seven children born in Romania to Lazarus and Katrina Mudrack. Her father immigrated to Canada in 1907 and, after extensive travel, settled in the hamlet of Lenard, Manitoba. Lenard is a beautiful town surrounded by large grain fields, soft rolling hills and the deep Shell Valley. Four years later, husband, wife and their four children were reunited. The family soon welcomed three more daughters Vera, Marjorie and Elsie. The serene setting was shattered in 1918 when the Spanish flu epidemic swept the country. Both Marjorie's mother and little sister Elsie perished. As a result, Marjorie and Vera's lives soon changed for the worse when their father remarried. Fortunately, Casandra, their eldest sister, made room for both Vera and Marjorie at her farmstead. Marjorie and Vera spent the remainder of their childhood as part of Casandra's family. The girls enjoyed many youthful good times. Whether it was the innocence fun of berry picking saskatoons, cranberries and tiny little wild strawberries for preserves, attending the little country school where children of all ages mingled in one room, walking through the grain fields, in their best clothes, to attend Sunday Church, or just wearing the lovely clothing that Casandra made for the two very beautiful little girls. As happened to many of her generation, Marjorie left home at an early age to seek work. Her first job was on a farm looking after children who were many years her senior. Then, the Nuns, who operated the Sacred Heart Hospital in Russell MB, took her under their wings. She remained with them for five years. Perhaps because she was such a small delicate little person, the Nuns were very protective and Marjorie dearly loved her time there but, in the end, not enough to join their ranks. She then moved to Winnipeg and immediately gravitated towards employment caring for others. She was first involved at St. Joseph's Hospital. Marjorie then worked at The Knowles School for Boys. Her gentle care and firm manner made a positive difference in the lives of many troubled boys. Many of her boys kept in touch with her long after she left the school. The following years saw Marjorie traveling across Canada working as a hostess at many of the fine railway resorts and hotels. She also worked as a sales clerk at various department stores. Marjorie's adventurous nature provided her with the courage to strike out on her own and go to Honolulu, Hawaii. When she arrived, it was love at first sight. Marjorie would spend most of her life in her beautiful Hawaiian island paradise. In those days, Hawaii was not yet an American state and finding work in the hospitality industry was not difficult. Throughout her working life Marjorie was highly regarded by her employers and co-workers as an honest, loyal, conscientious and hard working person. She faithfully returned to Winnipeg, on her vacations, to visit her sister Vera, her sister's family and to reconnect with her many friends. In turn, Hawaii became a favourite destination for her family and friends to visit. Marjorie was always able to direct her guests to interesting locations well off the traditional tourist path. During her 40 years of Hawaiian residence, she acquired a host of friends from all over the world as well as a beautiful condo in the heart of Waikiki. Over the years, Marjorie always opened her condo to the multitude of guests with whom she generously shared her home. Marjorie truly cherished all of her friendships. It is said that all good things must eventually end , and so it came to pass for Marjorie. Later in her life, illness befell Marjorie. She was no longer able to live alone. The level of care required, necessitated a return to Winnipeg and placement in a personal care facility. Once back, she continued to be very much a part of her family unit. Marjorie continued to enjoy the company of her family and friends in Winnipeg. They in turn have loved, cared for and shared many wonderful dinners and outings with her. We extend thanks to all those at Golden West Centennial Lodge who provided support and care to Marjorie during her time with them. Over the past two years Marjorie's companion Pat T. provided her with care, kindness, compassion and friendship. For this, I am truly grateful. At Marjorie's request, cremation has taken place and her ashes will be returned to her beloved Hawaii. Once there, her ashes will be taken by outrigger canoe and scattered in the ocean. A private family service will be held in Honolulu. Marjorie lived a good long life and she has earned both her peace and place in heaven. The tide recedes, but leaves behind bright seashells in the sand. The sun goes down, but gentle warmth still lingers on the land. The music stops, and yet if echoes on in sweet refrain For every joy that passes, something beautiful remains Chapel Lawn 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 28, 2008