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MARION FRENCH Peacefully, with her family by her side, Marion French passed away on August 31, 2014, at the age of 98. Predeceased by her parents, her six siblings and her husband "Duke", Marion is survived by her four children, Lawrence (Brenda), Merrilee Anthony (Bill), Melinda Pearson (Larry) and Patti Merrett (Bill); her eight grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Marion was born in East Selkirk, Manitoba, but lived the majority of her life in Winnipeg, where she met and married Duke. She moved to Didsbury, Alberta, with Merrilee and Bill in 2003, but has resided in the Southwood Care Centre in Calgary for the last six years. Marion had a quick wit, a quiet determination, a strong faith and a kind and caring heart. She was an accomplished seamstress, an avid gardener and a tireless volunteer who supported many causes throughout her life. Marion made friends wherever she went - her influence was evident by the number of people who came to bid her adieu this past week. Prior to moving to Alberta, Marion worked for United Grain Growers as the Supervisor of Grain Receipts, retiring in 1991 at the age of 75. She was a long-time and very active member of St. Aidan's Anglican Church, where among other things, she taught Sunday School, served on the vestry and the altar guild, sang in the choir and was a member of the seniors group in later years. Marion gave her time to many causes and organizations. She was a strong advocate for the "Save the Met" campaign, canvassed for the Heart and Stroke Foundation and supported many other causes through gifts of her time as well as money. A member of the Manitoba Liberal Party since its inception, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award for her service. Thank you to the staff of Southwood Care Centre for the care they provided to Marion throughout her time there - care which they extended to the many family and friends who came to see Marion during her final days. A funeral service was held September 5, 2014, at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Calgary Alberta. A memorial service and interment will take place in Winnipeg/East Selkirk in October. The details will be published once arrangements have been made.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 06, 2014
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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On behalf of the entire extended family, " Thank you" to all who expressed their condolences. This Thanksgiving weekend, our Mom was laid to rest with our Dad, Duke, her sister, Nettie, and her parents, Anton & Irene Pitlowany, in a small cemetery in East Selkirk, in accordance with her wishes. Mom truly lived every day of her life. We will miss her, of course, but hopefully we will retain the life lessons she taught us. - Posted by: Patti Merrett (Daughter) on: Oct 13, 2014
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"Our two daughters and Patti took tap dancing lessons from Merle Phillips together; Marion was a very good friend. We missed her when she moved to Alberta. She was so proud of her family. What a lovely long life she lived. Our Blessings and sympathy go out to her family. Lloyd & Gwen " - Posted by: Gwen & Lloyd Kitching of Carman, MB. (Friends -- ) on: Sep 09, 2014
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I had the pleasure of working with Mrs.French at UGG. Among all the staff in our department (including management) your mother, was the only one that was referred to as MRS. She had the utmost respect from all of us girls. She had wisdom to share, and was always up for a friendly chat about current events or fashion. She was very proud of her family and shared many stories over the years.I will cherish the memory of one special lady. Sending my sympathy to you all. - Posted by: Colleen M. ((co- worker from UGG)) on: Sep 07, 2014
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I met Marion when I was 17 years old starting my first job at United Grain Growers. She was my supervisor. She was a very kind patient person. I'm glad she had a long life...my condolences to the family - Posted by: Heather (ex employee) on: Sep 06, 2014