MARY BRISCOE (PETRIE)

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MARY BRISCOE (nee PETRIE) Mary Briscoe, beloved wife of John (Jack) Briscoe, died suddenly on Saturday, June 9, 2007. Mary was born in New York on February 7, 1927. She was predeceased by her mother Mary Petrie (nee Bourque) of Neelin, Manitoba; her father Thomas Petrie (who had emigrated from Banff, Scotland); and brother William (Bill) Petrie of Neelin, Manitoba. Mary was raised in the tiny village of Neelin, Manitoba, where she attended school with Bill, and she helped raise younger brother David and sister Gladys due to her father's passing. She began work in Winnipeg at the T. Eaton Co. where she met Jack, the love of her life. They were married in 1950 and together they raised three sons, Cameron (Karen Stavenjord) of Calgary Alberta; Don (Sandra Richardson) of Oakbank, Manitoba; and Darrell (Winn Robson) of Winnipeg. Mary was a devoted, full-time mother who also cared for many children in her home, prior to the time when daycare became popular. She ensured the boys stayed out of trouble whilst growing up in Fort Rouge. Mary worked at Neiman's drugstore for several years until she retired in 1992. She was a fabulous grandmother to Scott, Ryan, Curtis, Jason, Kara, Adam and Derek. She was so pleased to be able to attend Scott and Hannah's wedding in Calgary, and she relished her role as great-grandmother to Holly and Ava of Carstairs, Alberta. Mary was also a wonderful, sister, aunt and friend. She was a loyal, giving and hardworking person who loved to have a good laugh. She volunteered her time for many years at the Gospel Mennonite Church, where she enjoyed the fellowship of other volunteers. She was an active, longtime member of Crescent Fort Rouge United Church, and she enthusiastically contributed handmade creations to many bake and tag sales. Mary produced several hand-knit bears/dolls that were sent to children in Africa. Mary so enjoyed her singing group and their sojourns to a long-term care centre. She also very much looked forward to, and thoroughly enjoyed, her annual trips to visit her sister Gladys in Alexander, Manitoba. In February, Mary enjoyed various 80th birthday celebrations, being delightfully surprised by the attendance of her sister and brother; she was also honoured with numerous flower arrangements and well wishes. Mary Briscoe will be sadly missed by all of those who loved her so very much. We are grateful for having had her in our lives. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Crescent Fort Rouge United Church or a charity of your choice. The funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 16, 2007, at 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn, 4000 Portage Avenue. Interment to follow. Private viewing 11:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 13, 2007