MARGARET VICTORIA STILLINGER

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MARGARET VICTORIA STILLINGER September 2, 1920 - October 6, 2006 Peacefully at home, on October 6, 2006, Peg Stillinger left us to join God. We are very grateful that she did not suffer or linger and that at the time of her death she was happily anticipating a family Thanksgiving weekend at the lake. Peg fully enjoyed and delighted in all the adventures of her life and ours. Mom was a busy homemaker with four children; Lynn (Bill), Nancy (Marvin), Edward and Lea (Ernst). She was resolutely independent, still living on her own in her condo at 86, and driving herself to regular bridge meetings with her card playing pals Kay, Barb, Anne, Fran, Ginny, Marnie and Eileen. As children, we eagerly anticipated the yearly Bridge Ladies Getaway to Grand Forks, and subsequent treats on her return. Mom continued to be an active member of the PEO sisterhood for 50+ years a philanthropic organization that supports post-secondary education for women, a cause she was devoted to in her daughters' lives and other's. She will be sadly missed by her Chapter M Sisters. Peg will also be missed by families of her brothers Claude and Dick Wilson, as well as the extended family and numerous lives her warmth and enthusiasm for life touched. Mom was deeply committed to her faith, H to study and question and deepen her understanding of God all her life. She found comfort in the United Church and was energized by her time there, working quietly with profound conviction toward greater peace and justice, both locally and globally. Active in the church, she was an Explorer Leader and Sunday School teacher as well as a member of the bible study group. Even making a quilt with the group, an activity she had never before taken up, didn't faze her. Thanks Nancy! Mom's special delight was spending time with her family and keeping us all informed of what those in far flung places were doing. Mom was such a good sport and loved games of all kinds with grandkids at Nancy's cabin or in Montreal at the chalet. Visits to Edward in Victoria were a special treat, the anticipation and stories of which she reveled in sharing. Grandkids Gavin, Celeana, Brianne, Vanessa, Layne and Tori treasure the time they spent with her. She was always an avid supporter of all of her grandchildren's activities, constantly attending Christmas concerts, school plays, dance recitals and every special occasion. Gramma taught her grandchildren that there's no age limit to fun, adventure and generosity. Both she and her great grandson Jackson were thrilled to have the special opportunity to spend so much time together this summer. Another delight of Mom's was travel. She loved her trips with her husband Dick, who predeceased her in 1994. They spent happy days in Hawaii, Sanibel, Portugal, Greece, London, Quebec, BC and Eastern Canada. Many of our happy memories are with Mom at the beach. It was always important to Mom to have all of her chicks' together under one roof to celebrate. Mom's legacy left to our family is infinite, an example of uncritical trust, devotion, constant encouragement and support, a deep respect and appreciation for the arts and creativity, a steadfast belief in the best of people. She loved nothing more than the beautiful things her children and grandchildren created. Mom's faith in us was never ending, and she was a constant source of love and affirmation. Thank you, Mom! Mom was an avid supporter of various causes, sparked by her firm belief in justice and good in the world. Her giving was generous, and in lieu of flowers we would like to encourage donations to ArtCity or to a charity of your choice. At Peg's request, cremation has already taken place. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held on Saturday, October 14, at 11:00 a.m. at Sturgeon Creek United Church.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 12, 2006