MARY NORRIS COLLETTE (STEWART)

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MARY NORRIS COLLETTE
(nee STEWART)

With mixed emotion the family of Mary Collette announce her passing on Friday, August 6, 2021, at Eden Gardens in Nanaimo BC. Mary struggled with Alzheimer's for far too long and is now at peace where she can join Danny, her beloved husband of 65 years, who she lost 10 months ago.
Mary was born on May 29, 1934, at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg to William (also known as Norris) and Euphemia Stewart joining older sister Annabelle. The Stewart's eventually moved to Ruby Street where Mary's Mom often requested taxi service. One driver in the fleet insisted on being dispatched to that address as he always hoped that it would be the younger Stewart he'd be picking up. His persistence seems to have paid off.
The couple were married in March of 1955 and by late 1958 had welcomed two sons to their family including William (Jennifer) and Robert (Dana). Mary also leaves to mourn her three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren including: Danielle (John), Rachelle (Aaron), Jackson (Sarah), Charlie and Maya.
Mary loved watching her boys play hockey during the 1960s and 1970s and was often the only Mom standing in snowbanks during the rather cold winters in Winnipeg. She never missed a game. In 1977 the couple purchased a cottage at Caddy Lake in the Whiteshell Provincial Park; a place they cherished for nearly 20 years. Following that they moved to Vernon, BC where Mary joined a volunteer group at the Vernon Hospital. She thrived on making many items over the years for seniors, young families, and newborns. She made thousands of hand-crafted knitwear.
At the urging of Bill and Bob the couple moved to Nanaimo in 2011 after it became obvious that Alzheimer's had opted in. Shortly after their relocation Mary was moved to Traveller's Lodge then over to Eden Gardens where she lived under the watchful and caring eye of so many wonderful caregivers and nurses.
The family express their sincere appreciation to all who cared for and loved Mary throughout her life, and especially over the last 10 years. We respectfully acknowledge the incredible support of so many during these past most difficult months.
The family are planning a trip to Caddy Lake in the summer of 2022 where both Mary and Danny can be put to rest near their cherished cottage. It's possible that a taxi ride will be included.
Memorial donations in memory of Mary can be made to the Alzheimer's Society of Canada - www.alzheimer.ca.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 11, 2021