VERA WINNIFRED PAUL (BARNES)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

VERA WINNIFRED PAUL (nee BARNES) At the age of 97, at St. Boniface Hospital, the evening of Tuesday, May 6, 2008, our precious Mother closed her eyes and quietly slipped away. Mourning the loss of our dearest Mother and cherishing the unconditional love she showed each of us, are: Claudette Gallagher of Shreveport, LA, Arlene (Tom) Elendiuk of Winnipeg, Vivian Paul of Vancouver, BC, Allison Paul of Winnipeg and Clyde (Pearl) Paul of St. Catharines, ON. Deeply saddened by the loss of their beloved Grandmother are 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren: Lyle, Brent, Randy, Cynthia, Kelly and Andrea Gallagher (USA), Lisa Boudrie (Peter) and Lara Elendiuk (fiancé Ryan Maracle) in Winnipeg; Michael, Claire, Erica and Sarah Gordon in Vancouver; Jason, Jennifer, Jeffrey and Julie Paul in St. Catharines; and great-grandchildren: Avery Gallagher and Ava Boudrie. Mom will also be missed by Tom's sisters and brother: Dolores, Juanita, Linda, Donna, Bonnie, Robert and their families. The Elendiuk family has had a special place in Mom's heart for many, many years. She asked about them often and was always happy to hear about their children, grandchildren, adventures and travels. Born February 24, 1911, our Mom lived her entire life in Winnipeg. In 1928 she met our Dad, Alfred Joseph Paul. AJ was the love of her life. They were married in 1932 and spent 45 wonderful years together, raising their family of seven children. As we grew up, left home, married, had children of our own, Mom was always there to support us and gently guide us with her love and understanding. With her cheerful disposition and quiet strength, our Mom made the best of whatever came her way. She was a bright and shining example to each of us. Mom was a woman of honesty, integrity, warmth, compassion, intelligence, dignity, faith and humour. We feel truly blessed to have had her with us for so many years. Mom was predeceased by her husband Alfred Joseph (1977), sons, Edmund (1947), Vernon (1971), her mother Jessie (Cliffe) Barnes, father Frank Barnes and stepmother Ada (Hedgecock) Barnes; siblings: John, Florence, Stanley, Jessie, Edward, Fredrick and Sidney. Mom is survived by her brother Reginald (Gloria) Barnes and will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbours. Rest in peace now, dear sweet Mom and know we love you. Flowers are gratefully declined. Should friends wish to do so, donations to Ronald McDonald House, Special Olympics Manitoba, St. Boniface Hospital and Research Foundation, or the charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated. A very heartfelt thank-you to the caring and compassionate staff on 5B, who went out of their way to help make Mom's last few weeks as comfortable as possible. Funeral service will be held Monday, May 12, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave., with reception to follow. She comes sailing on the wind, her wings flashing in the sun; On a journey just begun, she flies on. - Gordon Light CHAPEL LAWN 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 10, 2008