ELEANOR RUTH FITZPATRICK

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ELEANOR RUTH FITZPATRICK (nee McIntyre) Peacefully, on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, Ruth Fitzpatrick ended her brief battle with cancer at 10:57 a.m. at the Health Sciences Centre, loved ones at her side. Mom's passing will be mourned by her daughter Maureen (Garvin), sons Denis (Mariann), John and Kelly, grandchildren Aaron, Dyani, Sean and Neil. Mom was predeceased by her parents Duncan and Nell, husband John Conelly, her sister Jean and brother Jack. Eleanor Ruth McIntyre was born in a tiny Stella Avenue house on July 9, 1921. Attending area schools, she graduated from St. John's High School, Class of 1939. Here she met her future husband, John. After marriage, a move to the West End was made, where, in 1948, a household was established which would become the touchstone and bedrock of the Fitzpatrick family for three generations. Mom's stoic demeanor and gentle humour endeared her to all whom she met. She would enjoy her life in her house until the last month of her life, alert and intelligent to the end. A dedicated homemaker, Mom's intelligence and patience would provide her children with a love of reading and knowledge, and with a template of tolerance toward all. Her energies were directed into a vast array of hobbies, and volunteer work, where she served as President of the local Home and School Association at John M. King School. There, at J.M.K., Mom would be employed as a teacher assistant. While helping to establish the Winnipeg Association of NonTeaching Employees, she became the school's beloved Playground Lady. Upon retirement, Mom fully indulged her life long love of horses. At Assiniboine Downs she became part owner, with her friend Ingrid Lee, of several race horses. There she formed, as ever she went, many close bonds of friendship. Mom instilled in her children an appreciation of nature with yearly family camping trips into the wilds of Manitoba and North West Ontario. Mom also travelled to the West Coast, United States, England and Scotland. She exulted in her children's and grand-children's achievements and spoke often of her fulfillment in life. A bright light has burned its last, but has ignited a love among many that will forever light their lives. In keeping with Mom's wishes, cremation has taken place and a gathering of family and friends will be held on Thursday, May 5, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at Thomson Funeral Home. THOMSON FUNERAL HOME 669 BROADWAY, WINNIPEG, MB R3C OX4 783-7211 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsonfuneralchapel.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 03, 2011