JUNE D. JOHNSON (BOWMAN)

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JUNE D. JOHNSON (nee BOWMAN) A mother holds her children's hands for a while, their hearts forever. With her usual dignity, our dear mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, June, passed away on March 7, 2008 at the Grace Hospital. June was predeceased by her husband, Don, in August, 1983. Left to cherish her memory are her children, daughter Carol (Murray) Dickson, daughter Patti, son Rick (Chris), and daughter Laurie; grandchildren, Michael and Daniel, Jennifer (Jonathan), Kristen, Robyn and Ryan; and great-granddaughter Chloe. June was born in Winnipeg on June 18, 1923, the only child of Bill and Doris Bowman. She grew up in Fort Rouge and attended Kelvin High School. After one date with Mom, our Dad said, Cut her off at the ankles and I'll marry her. (She was 5ft. 11in. and he was obviously a smart young man, because he told us all that marrying her was the best decision he ever made.) They married on New Year's Day in 1943 and eventually settled in Fort Garry where Dad was a pharmacist and Mom was a devoted wife and mother. She was an active member of the Wildewood Club and a long-time member and Past President of the Manitoba Pharmacists Women's Auxiliary. Her children all have happy memories of growing up in Fort Garry and many fun-filled summers were spent at the Victoria Beach cottage. June loved music, singing and dancing; she was a movie buff; she enjoyed reading, and loved playing games, her favourite being bridge. She loved nature and had an incredible green thumb - it seemed she could make anything flourish. Mom also loved to travel and we're glad that she had the opportunity to take many trips with family and with life-long friends. As anyone who was ever a part of her life knows, June loved life and made the most of every minute of it. Her glass was always half-full and she looked for and found the best in everything and everyone. Her welcoming smile and her friendly, giving nature were reflected by the countless friends she made wherever she went. Our Mom (affectionately known as Mort ) was her children's staunchest supporter, always a caring presence in our lives, and as a grandmother she shone brightly. She was a woman who amazed us all with her strength and courage, even during the most difficult times of her life. Mom, you taught us more than words can ever say, and you leave us and all who knew you with many happy, funny and beloved memories. Thank you so much to the wonderful staff and her many friends at The Wellington who made her life there so very enjoyable for her. A private family service has taken place. An informal gathering to remember June's life will be held at The Wellington, 3161 Grant Avenue, on March 24 at 1:00 pm. If friends so desire, donations may be made to The Children's Wish Foundation in lieu of flowers. Mom, we love you and will always miss you. All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all. CHAPEL LAWN 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 19, 2008