EMMA ELENORE (NORRIE) COOPER

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EMMA ELENORE (NORRIE) COOPER Sadly we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Norrie, on April 2, 2007 in Todos Santos, Mexico. Born in Winnipeg of Icelandic descent, she is survived by her four children, Hugh (Sharon ) and children Danielle, Hugh, Ryan, Tory, Carly, Taylor and Dillon; Fraser (Suzanne) and children Garett, Rhys, and Lindsay; Ashley (Julie) and children Chelsea, Bradley, and Brendan; Cindy and children Katrina, Marianne, and Adelle and great-granddaughter Cassidy. Norrie will be greatly missed by her husband Peter Jackson, her sister Lorna (Ken) Thorlakson of Winnipeg, her sister-in-law, Rossanne Penman of Calgary and their families. Mom was predeceased by her loving parents, Gudrun (Runa) and Johannes Olson of Winnipeg, and our dad, Hugh W. Cooper. Mom graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1946 with a BSc in Home Economics, and followed that with a degree in Social Work in 1948. Married to Hugh that year, they moved to Boston while Hugh attended Harvard Business School and then to California before returning to Winnipeg in 1954 to re-establish their roots and raise a family. Mom was active in sports and social work, and could always be found volunteering her time to the Junior League, Winnipeg Art Gallery, and various other non-profit organizations. From Chairman of the Social Club at University to volunteering with the Manitoba Theatre Centre, Norrie maintained her presence in the vibrant Winnipeg social scene with her charm and glamour. But to her children, they will always remember her for her complete devotion as a mother. To each she was their biggest fan and such a strong inspiration with her positive attitude and undying support. Mom's second life began in the 1980s when she met Peter, and the two of them soon became inseparable. They both loved travel, getting to know people and experiencing life. Their love of travel led them to Todos Santos, Mexico, long before it became fashionable, and they continued their travel adventures and further expanded their circle of caring friends over the next 20 years. From Spain to China, and from the Arctic to Central America , they always returned with tales of adventure that many would only dream of. Although small in stature, few could match this Icelandic bombshell's heart, energy or love of life. She will be remembered for her kind-hearted and loving nature and especially the genuine interest she felt for all who knew her. When talking with Norrie, you were always centre stage. She was a joy to be around and never one to complain. Norrie was an amazing woman whose children, family and many friends were all so fortunate to have benefited from her gentle love and support through the years. We will miss her terribly. The family will be holding a private celebration of Mom's life. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society would be greatly appreciated.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 08, 2007