MEGAN JOAN HOWES -

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MEGAN JOAN HOWES 1923 - 2011 The family of Megan Joan Howes is sad to announce that she passed away on Monday, April 25, 2011 after a brief illness at Grace Hospital. She died peacefully with family at her side. Left to cherish Megan's memory are sons Richard (Joan), Monty and Steve; granddaughters Sarah and Laura; brother, Dick; sister, Weida (Ken), as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, John, and brother, Bruce. Mom was born in Winnipeg, and as Octave and Madge Willows' eldest child, she played a substantial role in raising the family after her father died when she was nine. After attending United College, she married John Howes in 1945, and they moved to Regina to work for the provincial government. Upon their return to Winnipeg, Mom embarked on what was to become a distinguished career as a piano teacher. Many of her students won honours in various Manitoba Music Festival categories and some, such as the concert pianist Diedre Irons, developed professional careers in music. Megan was a meticulous teacher who brought out the best in her students, as indicated by her citations in the Canadian Encyclopedia of Music. During this time, she and John adopted and raised three sons, and while they set high standards of achievement, there could not have been a more supportive mother. Mom left no doubt that she was proud of each of us. Mom had a life-long passion for civic and political issues, and this was nourished by her prodigious reading. She enthusiastically embraced many causes and ideas. During the summer, mom loved to spend time at the family cottage at Victoria Beach, enjoying swimming, golfing and entertaining friends and relatives. At home, for almost 50 years, she delighted in her Charleswood residence with its riverfront setting. A private family Service was held on Friday, April 29, 2011. The family wishes to thank the staff of the Grace Hospital Emergency Ward and acknowledge the fine care provided on Ward 3 South. We are also grateful to the PRIME Centre at Deer Lodge Hospital, and especially to mom's Home Care Aides: Barbara, Janet, Maggie and Mod. In lieu of flowers, we request that donations be made to any organization supporting music or the arts, or the charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 30, 2011