RETA MAY COUTU (BAILEY)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

RETA MAY COUTU (nee BAILEY) The Rose Still Blooms Beyond the Wall Peacefully and without pain our beloved mother Reta Coutu passed away on June 10, 2006 at Jocelyn House Palliative Care home. Reta is survived by her brother James Bailey; her children, David (Edith), Louise and Colleen Coutu; grandchildren, Jesse (Tracy) and Daniel Fisher, Claire and Aimee Coutu; great-children, Justin and Carly Fisher, Carston and Ayden; and cousin Mary Cale; and faithful friends Rosaline and Ophelia. Reta was predeceased by her parents, David and Dorothy Bailey (Flannery); husband Joseph; grandson Ben Fisher; son-in-law Jamie Cugnet; numerous friends and relatives. Reta was born in Hamilton on November 6, 1921, moving to the village of Pipestone at an early age. Reta enjoyed sports and the lively company of her cousins, forging friendships that lasted a lifetime. She worked at the post office and telephone office, developing a strong work ethic. Reta blossomed into a true Prairie Rose - resilient, resourceful, beautiful. After graduation, she moved to Brandon where she met and married Joseph Coutu. They settled in Ottawa where Reta worked as a skilled seamstress, specializing in drapery and upholstery. Her wit, honesty and good sense won the heart of her mother-in-law Louise and they became great friends. In 1956 Reta returned to Pipestone before joining Joe in Thompson, where he worked as the mine office manager and she worked at the Bay. Reta and her children then moved to Transcona where she worked at the Oxford, Johnny's, the Palma, the Princess, the Little Orchard, the Sals and for Homecare. She was a hard worker with a reputation for honesty and integrity. She helped raise her grandchildren and took great joy in being a grandmother. In 1986 Reta suffered a major stroke that left her bedridden and unable to speak. Through sheer will and determination, she fought back, learning to walk, talk and write with her left hand, living independently in her own apartment. Mom was generous and took special pride in sponsoring two boys overseas. Reta was essentially a very shy, private woman. With a masters degree in listening' she became a trusted confidante and sounding board for many. She was rewarded in kind with the loyalty and affection of friends and family. She wasn't the type to gush over loved ones. Laughter was the conduit to love and we could always get around her with a bit of wit. She was our best audience. In turn, we will miss her dry wit and humorous observations. Just recently she quipped - I want to be cremated (pausing for effect) AFTER death'. (laughter) When Mom was diagnosed with cancer, she decided to let nature take its course and moved into palliative care. Luckily, she chose Jocelyn House. The compassionate care Mom received was outstanding. Thanks to Jacqueline, Lyn, Sara, Marrina, Mitch, Wayne, Cathryne, Michelle, Darlene, Tracy and all the volunteers who support Jocelyn House. Reta very much appreciated the care she received through the years from Dr. Rush. Reta did not want a funeral or memorial service of any kind. Cremation has taken place and she will be interred in the Pipestone Cemetery at a future date. Friends may honour her by supporting one of her favourite charities. To feed the body - World Vision To heal the mind - Canadian Mental Health To free the spirit - Jocelyn House

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 17, 2006