THORA MCCAINE (PETERSON)

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THORA MCCAINE (nee PETERSON) It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Gudrun Thora McCaine, on November 30 2006, at age 86. Thora will be lovingly remembered by daughters, Leslie Kembel (Neil), and Maureen Wood (Jim); by her two grandchildren, Dr. Steven Kembel (Agnes), and Erin Kembel (Dave); great-granddaughter Maya; her step-great-grandchildren, Dana (Craig), Margo (Bob), Trisha (Matti), and Ashley (Brett); and her step-great-grandchildren, Cole, Hudson, Ella, Solomon, Tate, and Kylie; her sisters, Olive McCaine and Margaret Kroft; and brother Laurie Peterson. She was predeceased by her siblings, Joey Peterson, Kenny Peterson, Denny Peterson, Tootsie James, and by the love of her life, her husband Bill, in 1968. Thora was born and raised in Selkirk, MB, the oldest of eight children, and was very proud of her Icelandic heritage. She had many fond memories of her childhood, in a house full of siblings, and extended family. When she completed her high school, she came to Winnipeg and began her career at Eaton's in the cash department, where she made many lifelong friends. During this time, she met Bill, who she later married in 1948. After the birth of their two children, Mom and Dad built their home in Fort Garry. Over the years, they made many friends and were very involved in the community. They spent many enjoyable evenings at the community center square dancing, and hosted lots of neighborhood parties and get togethers. In 1969, she began a new career as an office manager at Salisbury House. We finally got her to retire at age 68, she really loved her job! But she found a new job, working as a volunteer with the Guild at the Victoria General Hospital, where she spent the next 16 years. Throughout her life, Thora found time to enjoy reading, bowling, crossword puzzles, time at the family cabin, many trips with her sisters and friends, and she never missed an opportunity to attend a family celebration. Family brought the greatest joy to Mom. She was a devoted Mother, and Amma who took great pleasure in being part of her children's and grandchildren's interests and activities. Whatever the event, Mom was always there to cheer everyone on. Sunday dinners were mandatory, and filled with great food, wine, conversation, and laughter. Mom understood the importance of family traditions, and passed them on to her children. To know Thora, was to share a laugh with her. Mom had a great sense of humour and was always the first to laugh at herself. Thora was a classy lady, with a great sense of style. She was a people person who took great joy in getting to know people, and becoming a part of their life. This was obvious from the many people who called mom a friend. She will be greatly missed by those who had the pleasure of meeting her. Thora's family wishes to extend a special thanks to the wonderful staff of 4 north at the Victoria Hospital, for all the loving care shown to her during her stay there. A special thanks goes out to Ivy, Trevor and Anita who gave mom such compassionate care during her last days. A celebration of Mom's life will be held on Monday, December 4, at 1:00 p.m. at Thomson In the Park Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Thora's name, to the Victoria General Hospital. THOMSON IN THE PARK FUNERAL HOME AND CEMETERY 1291 MCGILLIVRAY BLVD WWW.THOMSONINTHEPARK.COM 925-1120

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 02, 2006