MARGARET ANN KNOWLES (JOHNSTON)

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MARGARET ANN KNOWLES (JOHNSTON) Margaret passed away, peacefully, on Monday, December 1, 2008, at the Grace Hospital, at the age of 81 years. Remaining to forever cherish Margaret's memory are her daughter Bobbie Knowles (Cathe); her grandchildren, Bonnie Brotherston (Jon), Heather Brotherston Holman (David), and Robin Harris (Andrew), Matthew Brotherston and Sara Brotherston; great-grandchildren, William, Nyah, Ethan and Malcolm. She will also be missed by extended family, George and Debbie Brotherston and Alan, Gigi and Jimmy Shand, as well as, childhood best friend Myra Ennis, of Ontario. Born in Scotland, April 5, 1927, Margaret lived with her parents in Galashiels and was the youngest of seven. She finished her education in business studies and met the love of her life, William Raymond Knowles, a Canadian soldier. They were married in 1945 and Bill was shipped home to Canada. Margaret arrived in Halifax at Pier 21, off the troop ship that carried the war brides and they settled in Winnipeg. They had their only child Bobbie in 1947. Margaret worked in various office jobs including Fort Garry Tire and was an expert in shorthand. Eventually, she became the Assistant Manager at Adanac Credit Union in 1960. Marg and her family travelled every weekend to Ottermere, Ontario, on the Camper's Special to their cottage, which she loved. They bought their first house on Minto Street. She enjoyed being a Brownie leader. Margaret enjoyed spending time with friends and they were attracted to her great sense of humour and energy. Her laugh was infectious. Marg and Bill moved to Island Lake in 1971 and owned and operated Island Lake Lodge. They eventually moved to Grosse Isle to care for their grandchildren and finally retired in Neepawa in 1983. Marg and Bill loved their new home and made many close friends. They enjoyed golfing, bowling and coffee time with the group . After Bill's death Marg was supported by close friends, as well as, her church unit UCW. She became more involved with the United Church doing devotions on a regular basis. She continued to bowl and volunteered for Touchwood (Adults with Special Needs). She moved to Portsmouth in Winnipeg in 2006 and then to Oakview Place where she was adored by staff. Margaret was determined to accomplish whatever she could to support Bill and his dreams. She related to people in a fun-loving way and they responded to her. In her later years, she missed her soul-mate, Bill and was looking forward to re-uniting with him. A small family gathering will be held to celebrate Margaret's life. We would like to thank the staff at the Grace Hospital (3N). Your kindness and generosity was greatly appreciated. We would also like to thank Mary Weiss and Noreen Hollier, of Neepawa, for taking such great care of our grandma. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 06, 2008