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STELLA (ESTELLE) MARY CUMMINGS (KOPEC)  Obituary pic

STELLA (ESTELLE) MARY CUMMINGS (KOPEC)

Born: Jul 24, 1935

Date of Passing: Aug 22, 2017

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STELLA (ESTELLE) MARY CUMMINGS (nee KOPEC) July 24, 1935 - August 22, 2017 On Tuesday, August 22, Estelle Cummings never woke up. She died in her sleep at home, in bed. Having rallied back from seven weeks in hospital and a summer of physiotherapy and recent visits with her two children, Max and Deb, perhaps she just thought it was time to go? We'll never know. What we do know is that after a childhood spent on a farm in Chatfield, she moved to Winnipeg to attend high school and then became a history and geography teacher with the Winnipeg School Board. She met her husband David Cummings at a YMCA dance and had two children whom she spoiled with her relentless stream of inventive recipes (from Sour Cream Jeanette pie to elaborate curries), her love of the world, endless stories and all-round "goodness." An active participant in numerous Franciscan retreats and workshops at St. Mary's Cathedral and St. Alphonsus Church, Estelle was truly a lifelong learner. From tap dance lessons (taken in her 70s) and Spanish-language classes to a learn-to-swim program and a university class on terrorism - she was always a seeker. Estelle never stopped being a cheerleader and she loved her family immensely. We miss her so. Predeceased by her loving mother Frances Kopec and sister Elizabeth Jackson in 2001, Estelle is survived by three of her siblings: George Kopec of East St. Paul, Cliff Kopec of Sharpewood, and Verna Brooks of St. Vital; two children, Max Cummings of Philadelphia, and Deb Cummings of Calgary; and three grandchildren - Siobhan, Quinn and Mario. And too many beloved nieces and nephews to name. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August, 30, at St. Alphonsus Church, 315 Munroe Avenue, followed by lunch.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 26, 2017

Condolences & Memories (7 entries)

  • I was one of Mrs. Cummings geography students at Sisler in the 90's. I think most students thought of her as one of the 'tougher' teachers because she didn't tolerate any misbehaving in her class and made it pretty clear that you better be there to learn! As stern as she could be, she always gave everyone-even the 'slackers' who didn't take her seriously-another chance to pass her class. Teenagers don't appreciate these things while in the moment, but I always did. And I have always remembered her as one of the teachers that truly cared about teaching. She wanted every one of her students to succeed and that has stayed with me all of these years. I just wish I had the opportunity to tell her thank you. We need more teachers like her! Very sorry for your loss xoxo - Posted by: Tracy H. (Former Sisler High School Student) on: Oct 27, 2017

  • So sorry for your loss.. I would see your mom once in a while and she always kept me updated on you both and your kids - Posted by: diane knight (delaney) (Neighbor on Roberta ave) on: Sep 16, 2017

  • Sorry for your loss Debbie and Max. It has been many years since I saw your Mom, but she was an amazing lady. I have fond memories of spending time over at your place. Take care. Carolyn (school friend) - Posted by: Carolyn Kwiatek (nee Chrustie) (school friend of Debbie) on: Aug 30, 2017

  • I met Stella for three years, that was enough to appreciate her good heart and nice personality. My prayers for her soul and family. - Posted by: Angelica chorney (Friend) on: Aug 29, 2017

  • So sorry that your mom passed, she was a great neighbor and friend and will be sadly missed. It's the end of an era, she has been a great neighbor and friend for over 30 years! No one will be able to fill that void. She was one classy beautiful lady. She was a huge inspiration for anyone, leading such an active busy life well into her 80s. I loved her energy and zest for life! I know she is with the angels in heaven, as her faith in God was very strong. In Sympathy, Toby and Mary Lynn - Posted by: Toby & Mary Lynn Desmarais (Neighbors ) on: Aug 28, 2017

  • Stella, was a Beautiful human being who inspired me and many others. Miss you my Friend. My sincere condolences to the Family - Posted by: Isabel Molina (Friend) on: Aug 27, 2017

  • I met Stella 13 years ago at Good Neighbors SC ;she always had a smile in her face and the best attitude, as long time learner:) It was my pleasure teaching her for many years at my Pilates classes. - Posted by: Claudia CHERNITSKY ( Long Pilates instructor) on: Aug 26, 2017

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