MARLENE DORIS BESANT (MARSHALL)

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MARLENE DORIS BESANT (nee MARSHALL) It is with deep sorrow and sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of Marlene Doris Besant on Mother's Day, May 11, 2008. In the presence of loved ones at St. Boniface General Hospital, Mom took the final step on her journey to Heaven, at the age of 67, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Left to forever cherish her memory is her loving husband of 40 years, James, son Kevin (Haylee) and daughter Tricia (Jean-Francois), sisters, Lynn (Gord) and Donna (Chris), brother Ron (Delores), granddaughter Samara, niece Sara (Gerry), nephews, Danny and Dale, extended family and countless friends. Marlene was predeceased by her mother Melina and aunt Alia. After a long career as an administrative secretary, her retirement in 2003 from the Louis Riel School Division was well-deserved. As a dedicated member of the Assiniboine Chapter of Sweet Adelines International for many years, she had a strong passion for song. To her great honour, she was recently bestowed an honorary lifetime membership in the organization. Mom also had a love for quilting. Her home was always filled with the sounds of the songs she adored the most, and the exquisite colours and patterns of the many quilts she produced and the fabrics she collected to make them from. Mom was a sweet, selfless and gentle person. As a caring, devoted mother she was the heartbeat of our family and she eagerly awaited the birth of her second grandchild. Mom's positive nature and amicable character endeared her to everyone she encountered. Her strength, despite her small size, amazed us all. Marlene has left a wonderful legacy in those who knew and loved her, especially her children. In keeping with Marlene's wishes, cremation has taken place and a funeral mass will be held on Thursday, May 15 at 11:00 a.m. in the St. Bernadette Parish, 820 Cottonwood Rd. The family would like to express their gratitude to Darlene and the CancerCare Team, Dr. Popowich and the Gynecologic Oncology Department, as well as the staff of 3B at St. Boniface Hospital for all their care, concern and assistance for Marlene and her family during her valiant battle. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations in memory of Marlene may be made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, 675 McDermot Ave., Room ON1160, Winnipeg, MB. R3E 0V9. The Coutu family in care of arrangements: E.J COUTU CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 253-5086

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 14, 2008