MARY EMILY WILSON

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MARY EMILY WILSON It is with great sadness that the family announce the death of Mary Emily Wilson on September 8, 2010 at Riverview Health Centre, Winnipeg, MB. Mary was born on November 2, 1912 at La Rivière, MB to John W. and Winnifred May Wilson (née Marshall) but lived the majority of her illustrious and busy life in Winnipeg. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother and sister-in-law John H. and Ina G. Wilson, her sister and brother-in-law Louise and Jack McIntyre, and her niece Beverley Wilson. Mary is survived by her loving and devoted sister, Margaret Barbour of Winnipeg, as well as nieces Eleanor (Robert) Miller, Winnipeg and Jacqueline (Randy) Whittaker, Edmonton, AB. She will be remembered by great-nieces Jennifer (Kirby) Gehman, Winnipeg, Karyn (William) Mart, Calgary, AB, Charlyn Whittaker, Edmonton, and great-nephew Curtis (Thelma) Clothier, Qualicum Beach, BC, and ten great-great-nieces and nephews, Hannah, Margaret, Joshua, Timothy and Rachel Gehman, Alexander and Hayleigh Mart; and Quinton, Tyla, and Alina Clothier. In addition Mary is also survived by her mother's half-sister, Eva Webb, Vancouver, BC. Mary leaves behind much loved goddaughter, Anna (Biagio) Barcellona and family, Brandon, MB, as well as Anna's brothers and families of Brandon and Ottawa, ON, together with special extended family Bud and Margaret Barbour and family, and very special friends Jean Thompson, Sophie Kolt, all of Winnipeg, and Carroll and Jeannie Hurd and family of Laramie, Wyoming. After graduation from St. John's High School Mary entered the St. Boniface Hospital School of Nursing and graduated in 1934. She went on to obtain a Diploma in Public Health Nursing from McGill University, Montreal, PQ, a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Arts Degree from Columbia University, New York City, New York. Mary was always the epitome of a competent, caring, and compassionate nurse and through her many years working in the Public Health field, strived to teach and implement healthy change for the betterment of her fellow human beings. Although Mary was a behind-the-scenes type of person her tireless efforts were recognized with many accolades and prestigious awards from government, associations, and the community such as the Florence Nightingale Award from the International Red Cross, Woman of Distinction Award from the Y.M.C.A., Manitoba Council on Aging Recognition Award, Manitoba Association of Registered Nurses Honorary Life Membership, and the Queen's Silver and Gold Jubilee Medals. Mary retired as the Acting Regional Director of Manitoba Health and Social Development, Thompson Region, in 1977 after 39 years of service to the community. After retirement she continued to diligently work as a volunteer with such organizations as Age and Opportunity, United Way of Winnipeg, the Canadian Red Cross, and was a founding member of National ALCOA and ALCOA Manitoba. Mary was also President of the Board of Directors of Seven Oaks General Hospital Foundation Inc. and a member of the Hospital Board. As a member of Fitness Canada's Advisory Council to the Secretariat for the Third Age, she was instrumental in introducing Mall Walking - as according to Mary walking feels good and I believe that a sound mind in a sound body gives a short but full description of a happy nation in this world . Mary was always a dutiful and loving daughter, an affectionate and caring sister, a wonderful aunt, a special friend and confident to her many close friends, and an example of the ultimate gentlewoman to all those who were fortunate to meet her. Mary will be truly missed. The family wish to thank the Palliative Care Staff on 3-East at Riverview Health Centre, Mary's Homecare Workers, Helen, Joy, and Lydia, and Jerry her Homecare Program Case Coordinator. A celebration of Mary's life will take place at Thomson In the Park Funeral Home on Thursday, September 16, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with a reception to follow the service. Interment will take place at Elmwood Cemetery at a later date with family only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Riverview Health Centre Palliative Care or a charity of your choice. THOMSON IN THE PARK 925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 14, 2010