ELIZABETH BARRIE MILLAR

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ELIZABETH BARRIE MILLAR February 10, 1915 - February 14, 2009 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Millar at the Health Sciences Centre on February 14, 2009 at the age of 94 years. Elizabeth is survived by her sisters-in-law Brenda Millar, Joyce Millar and Jean Anson; numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews; her godchildren; other relatives and some dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law May and Jim Smail, her brother and sister-in-law Jim and Mary Millar, her brother and sister-in-law Jack and Nan Millar, her brother Bill and her brother George. Elizabeth was born on February 10, 1915 and lived her entire life in Winnipeg. The Millar family moved to Ingersoll Avenue in the early 1930s where they lived in three different homes over the years. Elizabeth Looked after her parents and remained in the family home until 1982. She worked as a secretary for the General Manager of Globe Envelopes, Winnipeg Branch, until her retirement in February, 1980. Elizabeth's life was all about helping others. She has given generously to several charitable organizations over the years, including the child sponsorship program through the Salvation Army. Her volunteer work began when she was young helping the efforts of the Red Cross during the war and the Red River floods. She has also volunteered in different capacities for the Salvation Army. Elizabeth loved children and volunteered her time at the St. Amant Centre working with those facing developmental challenges. She had a long term affiliation with the Girl Guides of Canada and had a key role in the opening of the Caddy Lake Girl Guide Camp in Whiteshell Provincial Park. Elizabeth moved to Lions Manor in January, 1988. Over her years living there, she has devoted time and energy to ensuring the welfare of the residents. She has held several executive positions on the Lions Manor Residents Council including President. She was a member of the Resident Assistance Program. She served as the Chairperson for the Resident Council Welcoming committee, for the Lions Manor Friendship Circle, for Religious Services and for the Lions Manor Knit Wits , a weekly knitting group who donated knitted articles to the Red Cross. As well, she was a member of the Lions Manor Choir and Drama Club and actively participated in all recreational and social programs at the Manor. Elizabeth's lifelong dedication to helping others was rewarded in 2005 when, at the age of 90 years, she was honoured with The Premier's Volunteer Service Award. Elizabeth enjoyed many hobbies in her lifetime, including knitting and bird watching. When she was in her 80s, she began using the computer and took great pleasure in sending and receiving emails from her family. She loved the great outdoors and enjoyed many a nature hike at Birds Hill Park and Oak Hammock Marsh. Elizabeth's favourite times were those when the family could gather together. Summers were spent camping or staying in rental cottages at Grand Marais and later at her brother George's cabin in Belair. Her nieces and nephews all have wonderful memories of these times. Elizabeth enjoyed excellent health until October, 2005 when she had a stroke. Although she recovered from the stroke, her health was never quite the same an she reluctantly agreed to slow down a bit. During the last year, she had encountered several health issues and she finally accepted more help from family and the community she has served so well. Per Elizabeth's wishes, cremation has taken place with a private family burial planned for a later date. A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, February 27 at 2:00 p.m. in Harvey Hall at Lions Manor, 320 Sherbrook Street. Lt. Colonel Max Ryan from the Salvation Army will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Elizabeth's name to the Salvation Army, CancerCare Manitoba or the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba. We love you and will miss you, Aunty Lil .

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 21, 2009