FRANCES MARY WALTERINA WIDDICOMBE (ROYLE)

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FRANCES MARY WALTERINA WIDDICOMBE (nee ROYLE) May 18, 1915 October 31, 2007 Passed away peacefully at Russell Health Centre. Frances was born at Moore Park, Manitoba to Reverend Walter and Mary Royle RN (Gardner). Frances was a graduate of United College in Winnipeg. She taught school at several country schools and then finished her teaching career in Foxwarren, Manitoba. She was an active church member involved in United Church groups; The Pollyanas, United Church Women and The Worship Committee. Frances belonged to Foxwarren community organizations; The Women's Institute, The Order of the Eastern Star, and was a trustee on the Foxwarren School District School Board. Frances was a true musician at heart. Her love of music was evident throughout her life beginning at the age of nine when she accompanied for a Christmas concert. She was an accomplished pianist, organist, and accompanist. She shared her talent and love of music with everyone. Frances accompanied for music at Foxwarren School, the Northwestern Marquette Festival for soloists, choirs, and instrumentalists. She was the accompanist for the Foxwarren Ladies Ensemble for 40 years and Westminster United Church organist for 53 years. Frances was the Grand Organist for The Order of the Eastern Star in 1982. She was a candidate for the YWCA Women of Distinction Awards for outstanding achievement and contribution in the performing arts in 1982. Frances said, Music has the power to make you love, laugh, dance, and cry and it is wonderful. The most important aspects of Mom's life were her dedication to God and her love for her family and community. She lived her life with an unassuming dignity and conducted her affairs with integrity. She treated all God's creatures with love and respect. She was truly humble and a real lady. Frances was predeceased by her husband, Ted Widdicombe (1988) and sister, Vera McIver (1998). She is survived by her daughters, Mary June Klimack (Brian) of Tofield, Alberta and Margaret Royle Widdicombe (Bernie Whetter) of Brandon, Manitoba. Also surviving are five grandchildren, Christine Lamb, Jesse and Suzanne Klimack, Sarah and Ted Whetter. A celebration of a life well lived was held November 3, 2007 from Westminster United Church in Foxwarren with Reverend. M. Dwight Rutherford officiating, Phyllis Mac Granachan as pianist and the Foxwarren Community Choir. Interment followed in Foxwarren Cemetery. Pallbearers were, Ian Menzies, Daryl Widdicombe, Jack Widdicombe, Don Porter, Don Hodgson, and Ron Mac Granachan. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, The Multiple Sclerosis Society, or Westminster United Church Memorial Fund in Foxwarren. A heartfelt thank you is extended to the nurses and Dr. Honiball at the Russell Health Centre and the Home Care staff. A special thank you is expressed to all the Foxwarren community members who looked in on Mom this past year. She wanted to remain in her home and the generosity and care of all these people allowed her to do this. Thank you to Braendle-Bruce Funeral Service, David Klassen and staff for their professionalism. Braendle-Bruce Funeral Service of Russell, MB in care of arrangements. (204) 773-2747.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 13, 2007