EDNA MINNIE OAKE

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EDNA MINNIE OAKE (nee Lewis) It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Edna Oake, at the Grace Hospital on November 29, 2009, with family by her side. Edna was born, raised, and lived her life in Winnipeg. The place of her birth on April 5, 1919, was the family home on Corydon Avenue. She was the 4th of five children raised primarily by her mother, whom she loved and admired greatly. She often reminisced fondly about her childhood with her dear brothers and sisters. In her youth, Edna was a very talented dancer, performing on many of Winnipeg's stages. Edna met and married her husband, Stewart, and together they had five children. Losing their first child Gordon, as a toddler in 1943, was a difficult time, and it was then that Edna exhibited the inner strength and courage that she maintained throughout her life. Her family was the pride and joy of her life. Family gatherings were so important to her. One of Edna's special talents was her creative ability at the sewing machine. It was amazing what she could do with a few metres of fabric!!! Edna was a wonderful person - she had a great sense of humour, was gracious, kind and compassionate. She had a genuine concern for others, was a great friend, and a loving family matriarch. She has left an indelible imprint on many hearts. Edna was a true Canadian - extremely proud of her country and everything it represented. Heaven help the poor unsuspecting soul who made a negative comment about Canada! Some of Edna's happiest times were summers surrounded by family and friends at the cottage at Grand Beach. They were filled with joyous times as a child, swimming all day and dancing all night at the glorious Grand Beach Dance Hall. The wonderful summers continued on through the years as she raised her own family. She was very proud of the fact that she had been going to Grand Beach for 90 years, making family memories that have now encompassed five generations. Edna will be lovingly remembered by her sons Lew and Garth, daughter Valerie (Barry); six grandchildren, Sharon, Derek (Ligia), Carrie (Blaine), Bonnie (Brett), Brian (Andrea), Jennie (Ted); by seven great-grandchildren, Courtenay, Tailor, Brayden, Kamryn, Jadyn, Jacob, and Benson; and by numerous beloved nieces and nephews. Edna was predeceased by her son Gordon, husband Stewart, and daughter Cheryl. The last several years were difficult, but Edna was determined to stay in her home. Thank you to all the Home Care Givers and nurses, and especially to her son Garth, for helping to make this possible. Family would sincerely like to thank the nurses of Grace Hospital (2 South) for their dedication and compassion. An invitation is extended to family and friends to celebrate Edna's life on Thursday, December 17, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Charles Country Club, 100 Country Club Boulevard. Missing you always . . . forgetting you never

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 05, 2009