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BERTHA MAY ELLISON (HAMILTON) BIRDIE Obituary pic

BERTHA MAY ELLISON (HAMILTON) BIRDIE

Born: May 17, 1921

Date of Passing: Feb 27, 2012

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BERTHA MAY ELLISON (HAMILTON) BIRDIE To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die - Thomas Campbell It is with profound sadness and loving hearts that the family announces the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, mentor and friend. Birdie passed away peacefully at her granddaughter's and great-grandson's home on February 27, 2012 with family by her side. She was predeceased by her parents Jack and Singne Blackburn, grandson Gerid Shane Berry and sister Joyce MacRae. Blessed with two wonderful marriages, Birdie was predeceased by Albert Ab Ellison in 1981 and the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Hamilton in 2009. She will be greatly missed by her loving daughter Janice and son-in-law Leonard, her grandchildren Condren (Linda), Bronwyn, Rosyln, Kalyn and Kendryn, great-grandchildren Jared, Micayla (Brent), Scott, Megan, Jessica and Annalee, sisters Myrtle and Gladys, and many nieces and nephews. Born in Winnipeg on May 17, 1921, her family then moved to Chatfield, MB where she spent her early years. Her passion for learning coupled with the loving support of her father, enabled Birdie to achieve her educational goals. Her teaching career began in a one-room school house in 1941. She taught a variety of grades in numerous schools in both rural and urban settings. Recognized for her excellence in teaching and strong leadership skills, she was appointed Vice Principal of Assiniboine and Strathmillan Schools in the mid 1960s. Birdie's crowning accomplishment was when she was awarded the principalship of Lakewood Elementary School in 1970. She created a legacy second to none. Her approachable and caring nature, innovative programming, ability to inspire excellence in students and teachers alike and her relationship with the wider community will always be admired and remembered. Birdie's curiosity, love of life, sense of fun and laughter and generous spirit will leave a lasting impression on those privileged to have known her. We shall miss her guidance, her humour and her selfless dedication to family and friends. The family wishes to thank Dr. Judy Komosky and Dr. Pat Harris, the medical staff at the Grace Hospital, the compassionate team provided through The Palliative Home Care Program, Rubin Kantorovich for his culinary expertise and Rev. Aubrey Hemmiger and Rev. Paul Campbell, for their spiritual support and invaluable guidance. A celebration of Birdie's life will be held at St. Andrews Anglican Church, 2700 Portage Avenue on Saturday March 3, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either the Children's Hospital Foundation or the Children's Wish Foundation. Teach this triple truth to all: a generous heart, kind speech and a life of service and compassion are the things that renew humanity Buddha Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 01, 2012

Condolences & Memories (12 entries)

  • Auntie Bert, May you rest in peace. - Posted by: Kim MacRae (niece) on: Mar 20, 2012

  • My Auntie Bert was truly one of the finest ladies to grace this earth! As someone who continually exhibited honesty, integrity and accountability in every aspect of life and living, she was and remains the most positive influence in my life! - Posted by: Shelley Baker (niece) on: Mar 08, 2012

  • "Mrs. Ellison" (a fellow graduate of normal school with my mother) got me interested in the History stream up through University, and now to writing historical fiction. When I visited her a few years ago she said "Oh I remember you, you were the curious one", to which I would add that she had an amazing capacity to stimulate such curiosity in us students...through her own contagious curiosity...which got us curious about our world as it was and is. She will be missed indeed. Stu Harvey, former student. - Posted by: Stu Harvey (former student) on: Mar 06, 2012

  • I was sorry to hear of the passing of "Mrs. Ellison", as I knew her. As a student of Lakewood elementary, she taught us about DECORUM, respect, pride and to strive for excellence. We were lucky to have had her as a role model in our young, impressionable lives. - Posted by: Loree Cameron (Wershler) (former Lakewood student) on: Mar 04, 2012

  • Honor your beautiful memories of her, Celebrate her gracious spirit, Remember a full and wonderful life! I am so happy that I was able to meet her. What a great lady! My thoughts are with all of the family and may all your wonderful memories comfort you at this time. Love, Ginny from Kansas - Posted by: Ginny Lafrinere (friend of the family) on: Mar 04, 2012

  • I was so saddened to hear of the passing of such a wonderful lady. I attended Lakewood Elementary and she has remained in my memories and my heart ever since. I was fortunate to have a short visit with her a few years ago and she was as lovely as ever. - Posted by: Donna Siwicki (Former Student) on: Mar 03, 2012

  • Dear Janice, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We remember Birdie's warm and considerate hospitality on our visits to Winnipeg. Most of all, we remember how very much she loved all of you. She made Dad very happy. Andy and Marilyn Hamilton - Posted by: Andy and Marilyn Hamilton (Kenneth Hamilton's son and daughter-in-law) on: Mar 02, 2012

  • Birdie was a special woman to Colin, Sarah and I. Sarah affectionately called her Great Grandma-ma. We loved our time with her and your family. You are in our thoughts. Tina Hamilton - Posted by: Tina Hamilton (Grandpa and Birdie's Grandchildren from Calgary) on: Mar 02, 2012

  • I'm very sorry to hear of your Mother's passing. I remember Mrs. Ellison as Principal of Lakewood School and have many fond memories of her. She used to make reference to the spelling of 'Principal' and how the spelling of it contained 'pal' for a reason. She was a lovely lady. - Posted by: Lise (former student) on: Mar 02, 2012

  • I have so many memories of Mrs. Ellison, my first day of school in grade one, the day I broke my arm in gym class, the Time Capsule and so many others. I will always remember her in the office at school. She will remain forever in my heart and memories. - Posted by: Karen Wittebolle (Buchan) (Student at Lakewood Elementary) on: Mar 01, 2012

  • Dear Janice, My contact with your Mother was brief and intermittent, But I know she was fundamental to your family. I think of you and your family often, most especially now. Please accept my condolences. Sincerely, Craig Suderman - Posted by: Craig Suderman () on: Mar 01, 2012

  • Dear Janice and family: Our sincere sympathies in the loss of your Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. We are in Arizona but will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. Donnie & Linda Rybachuk - Posted by: Donnie & Linda Rybachuk (Nephew) on: Mar 01, 2012

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