CICELY VIPOND (SHARP)

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CICELY VIPOND (nee SHARP) With heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and aunt, Cicely Vipond. She went home to be with her Saviour at the age of 94 on September 8, 2007, at Seven Oaks Hospital with her family by her side. Cicely Emily Elizabeth Sharp was born on May 10, 1913, in Minnedosa, Manitoba, to Vincent and Elizabeth Sharp. She loved Minnedosa and had many fond memories of her life there with her brother Stan, with whom she had a special bond. She spent many days hiking the hills, playing baseball and hockey and camping with friends. She was an active member of the Girl Guides of Canada and later became a guide leader where she shared her love of the outdoors with others. At the age of 27, Cis moved to Winnipeg to further her education by becoming a nurse. She graduated in 1943 from the Winnipeg General Hospital and worked her entire career as a post-partum nurse at the Women's Centre. She formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed the yearly luncheons and reunions. Soon after graduation, Cis met a handsome soldier, Lenard Vipond. They fell in love and were married August 19, 1944. In the early years of their marriage, Len and Cis lived in various places in Ontario before returning and raising their family in the North End of Winnipeg. Cicely was a rarity in this world with her tender and gentle spirit. She was a genuine and sincere person, loved and admired by everyone. She exuded kindness and compassion. Everyone who knew her would describe her as sweet and loving, always giving a soft answer and encouraging word. Her character was pure and humble, yet strong and courageous; always giving, never expecting anything in return. She was always positive and saw the best in people. Her bright blue eyes and beautiful smile would light up with her zeal for life. Her family was her greatest treasure and she cherished the time she spent with them. She relished every occasion to support her children and grandchildren, from ringette and hockey games to graduations, birthday parties and vacations. She was a selfless person, willing to do without so others wouldn't. She was always content, never one to complain. We always knew she would be there for us. Her faith in Jesus Christ was pure and humble. She came to the knowledge of a personal Saviour and remained committed and faithful in her relationship with Him. She spent many hours reading her Bible and studying scripture with Caleb's Kin. As her time came near she had peace, knowing her life was in the Lord's hands and He would take care of her. Cicely is survived by her four daughters, Linda Vipond, Barbara Bailey, Sheila Franczyk (Chris), Kathleen Bernas (Mike) and son Robert Vipond. She is also survived by her grand-children, Laurie and Chris Bailey, Lisa Langan (Clint), Leah Busch, Craig, Kelly, Amanda and Eric Franczyk, Michelle and Melissa Bernas; and her great-grandchildren, Christopher, Olivia, Aimie, Brendan, Dylan, Mackenzie and Malachi. She is also survived by her brother Stan Sharp and sister Vivian From (Ken) as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Len, her parents, sister-in-law Sheila, stepmother Violet, son-in-law Harold and great-grandson Corby. Thank you to Dr. Van Rooyan, Dr. Fatoye and the nursing staff of 3U6 for their care and compassion. Funeral services will be held Friday, September 14, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. at Klassen Funeral Home, 1897 Henderson Hwy. A reception will follow and Cicely will be laid to rest in Brookside Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to KLASSEN FUNERAL HOME 1897 Henderson Hwy. 338-0331 www.klassenfuneralhome.com Our lives have been touched by this wonderful person Cicely and she will always be lovingly remembered. Mother, you held our hands for a short time but our hearts for a lifetime. Gramma, you will be sorely missed. Though life will be hard without you here, we know that one day we will be reunited and never have to say goodbye again.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 12, 2007