ELIZABETH H. (LIBBY) PARKINSON

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ELIZABETH H. (LIBBY) PARKINSON On September 12, 2005, Libby Parkinson passed away peacefully at the age of 84. Libby was born and raised in Montreal, the daughter of Reginald and Gertrude Gaunt. Predeceased by her husband Dwight, Libby leaves sons Graeme, Gerald, Terence and Robert, sister Margery, brother Richard, grandchildren Andrew, Rebecca, Kara and Chelsea, nieces Susan, Jane and Martha, and nephews Michael and Brian. Libby lived life to the fullest. Whatever she did, she did well and with great joy. She was an avid figure skater, achieving a distinguished record in amateur competition, and judging at Canadian and World Championships. Other sporting passions included golf, skiing and tennis. She also loved teaching her children every game and sport from swimming to Mah Jong. Gardening was another of her joys. She was a faithful member of St. Andrew's River Heights United Church. She lived daily the principles of her faith. Volunteer activities were a vital element in Libby's life. Whether it was delivering Meals on Wheels, sitting on the board of the Middle Church Home, teaching at the Winnipeg Art Gallery, chairing the volunteers committee for the 1967 Pan Am Games, inviting the elderly over for tea, visiting shut-ins or pursuing countless other community activities, Libby offered her energy, talent and good humour with unfailing generosity. She was President of the Children's Home of Winnipeg and the St. Charles Country Club Ladies Section. Libby gave of herself to all who had the privilege of knowing her. They will remember her as the woman who made a point of looking for the positive in the world around her, who always showed an interest in those whom she met even casually, who put the needs of others before her own. No one will ever know a more charming, vibrant and gracious hostess on social occasions. All who knew her were inspired by her zest for life. Her sons remember Libby as a loving mother who was always there for them. She was a parent who cared enough to make sure that her children spent their free time engaged in constructive activities. And if she could do so by taking part, she would, without hesitation. She wouldn't have missed visitors' day at Pioneer Camp for anything, and whatever might be the demands of school and sports, she was always willing to pitch in. At all times she was the loving partner of Dwight. His contributions to medicine and society were hers as well. Libby generously supported the WSO, the MTC and the Opera. The Bombers and the Montreal Canadiens never had a better fan. The world will not be the same without Libby. The family offers thanks to the staff of Tuxedo Villa, Vida Venzon, Brenda Duncan and Doreen Olson, for their care during her courageous struggle. The funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 20 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Andrew's River Heights United Church, followed by a reception at the Church. Friends may make donations to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 14, 2005