MARGUERITE JEAN RITCHIE -

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MARGUERITE JEAN RITCHIE 1914 - 2009 With great sadness the family announces the peaceful passing of our dear mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on May 19, 2009 at the age of 94. She was predeceased by her parents George and Gertrude Watson; her brothers, Ed, Harvey, Mervin, George and Melville and her sister Zelma McConnell. She is survived by two sons, Bill (Lois), George (Sheila) and one daughter Dorothy (Gerry) Palmer; grandchildren, Randy (Carol) Ritchie and their boys, Jason, Bradley, Ryan and Matthew; Heather (Bryan) Oughton; Sherrie (Irvine) Ferris and son Quinn; Kendall (Rosemary) Palmer and their children, Nicholas, Jamie and Derek; Leanne (Blair) Good and their children, Hollie, Sara and Ethan; Grant (Carolyn MacKendrick) Palmer and son Jack; Trevor (Kelly) Ritchie and their children, Kyle, Ashley and Amanda; Todd (Laurie) Ritchie and their children, Taylor and Kirsten; Tannis (Dean) Zimmel and their children, Brett, Raelynn and Rylee; brother Gordon (Ruth) Watson and many nieces and nephews. Mom was born on June 9, 1914 at Baldur, Manitoba. She was educated in schools from Baldur to the Interlake district. Mom will always be remembered as an amazing homemaker and great cook, learning these skills as a young girl helping out with the housekeeping and the care of her siblings. In 1934 she married John and they settled on a farm north of Argyle where their three children were born. In 1949 they moved to a larger farm which they called home until they moved to Stonewall in 1986. While living in Stonewood Place, Mom and Dad celebrated their 70th anniversary with family and friends. In 2006, they reached a milestone of 72 years together. Mom was an active member of the United Church Women, Argyle Legion Auxiliary, and the Argyle Curling Club and was always willing to help in the community whenever needed. Her greatest pleasure was her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They all have great memories of treats prepared by Grandma, especially the oatmeal cookies, which were always greatly enjoyed. Many hours were spent at the kitchen table playing cards and games. She treasured every one of them and was always happy for a visit, even if it was for just a short time. Mom spent the last three years in Rosewood Lodge. The family sincerely thanks the doctors and nursing staff for their loving and compassionate care. In keeping with Mom's wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service celebrating Mom's life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at Stonewall United Church at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers a donation may be made to Rosewood Lodge or a charity of one's choice. MacKenzie Funeral Home, Stonewall in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 22, 2009