VERA PETERSON

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VERA PETERSON It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Vera Peterson on Saturday, February 12, 2011, at the age of 92, in the Riverview Health Centre. Vera was born August 22, 1918, the eldest of three children. She was predeceased by her parents Katherine and Joseph Peterson. Vera leaves to mourn her daughter Carole, grandson Clayton, brother Brany, sister Mary and many close nieces and nephews. Following a series of wartime employment in a variety of positions, Vera joined Burns Foods Canada and later she became their first female supervisor. During this time Vera explored landscape oil paintings of the Whiteshell and soon after developed an interest in pottery. This evolved into her ability to work in tandem with anthropologists in replicating Manitoba indigenous pottery from artifacts. Samples of these works can be found in the Manitoba and Ontario Museums and many of her special pieces were gifted to close friends and family. The overwhelming joy that she found in creating a large piece from a small shard grew to a passion that she felt obliged to share with others. As she mastered the art of replication she began to share her skills and knowledge through various volunteer efforts, expositions and teaching groups in the community. Vera held her family very close to her heart. She loved cooking and hosted many family dinners as well as entertaining on her accordion and/or piano. The moments she recanted most were the times she spent with family and friends fishing, boating, campground singing and sharing in the laughter as stories were told at West Hawk Lake. Vera was a supportive mother who instinctively knew when she was needed and responded. She was a devoted grandmother who rose to every occasion, a fun loving sister, aunt and a loyal friend. It is through her enjoyment of living and sharing that we celebrate her life. A memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 18 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Vital Catholic Church, 1629 Pembina Hwy. We would like to thank the Coutu family and Father Barry Shoonbaert for their services and support. We acknowledge Monsignor Patrick Morand for his spiritual guidance throughout the years. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 47 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0R3. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E. J. COUTU CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald St. 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 16, 2011