CLAUDIA MAE JOHNSON (SMITH)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

CLAUDIA MAE JOHNSON (nee SMITH) It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Mom peacefully at Tuxedo Villa on Friday, March 13, 2009 at the age of 88 years. Mom will be sadly missed by her son Dave (Barb); grandsons, Graham (Heather), Kevin (Loni); granddaughter Kim Kish (Trevor); great-grandson Javin and great-granddaughter Faith all of Calgary; and son Bruce (Deb): and grandsons, Bryan and Wes (girlfriend Michelle) of Winnipeg. Mom also leaves to cherish her memory Marilyn Lyons and special family friend Kathy, as well as anyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with Mom. She was predeceased by her husband, Dan, of 54 years (1999); as well as her sisters, Dorothy Lyons (1945) and Beatrice Quinn (1981); and her parents, William Frederick Smith (1922) and Catherine Smith (1950). Mom was born on November 21, 1920 on their family farm, Section 7-4-16W in the RM of Turtle Mountain near Killarney, Manitoba, the youngest daughter of William and Catherine Smith. In 1922 when Mom was two, her father passed away which forced the family to move to the town of Killarney where she remained until 1942. Mom came to Winnipeg during Wartime years and worked at #5 AOS (Air Observers School) where she met Dad. In 1945 they were married and resided in St. James the remainder of their lives. In the 1930s Mom was confirmed at the Holy Trinity Church in Killarney and upon moving to Winnipeg became an active member of the St. James Anglican Church. Mom was for the most part a stay at home mom and was active volunteering in the community. She was most proud of her recognition for volunteering more than 25 years for SMD (Society of Manitobans with Disabilities). She made many lifelong friendships through volunteering and church, and was a member of the bridge club for over 40 years. Mom loved family and friends and often spoke about losing her father and growing up wishing she had a brother. These stories were told to express how important family was to her. Mom said maybe she had wished too hard as she ended up with two sons, four grandsons and one great-grandson. She was thrilled with the arrival of a granddaughter and in September 2008, a great-granddaughter named Faith. In the mid 1960s Mom and Dad began to travel. They had traveled to all Continents with England being their favorite. There were countless trips to Calgary to visit grandchildren. Mom loved to entertain and never could a special occasion pass without a celebration. Mom loved the The Bay downtown and Polo Park was okay too. Mom had strong values and was loyal to many people. She was also a 19 year breast cancer survivor which is attributed to her positive outlook on life. She often said, Oh well, things could be a lot worse. As declining health took hold on Mom these last few years, she never let it change her cheerful, friendly disposition. Cremation has taken place and a small private service will be held at a later date. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations may be made in Mom's memory to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 200 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3L 0K6, or a charity of choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 21, 2009