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E. CLARISSA BAGNALL  Obituary pic

E. CLARISSA BAGNALL

Born: Jan 28, 1924

Date of Passing: Dec 11, 2015

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E. CLARISSA BAGNALL January 28, 1924 - December 11, 2015 "Sunset and evening star, And one clear call for me! And may there be no moaning of the bar, When I put out to sea." Clarissa was born January 28, 1924, in Genoa, Italy to British parents, Oscar and Ethel Davies. In 1936, the family fled Mussolini's dictatorship to escape to England. During the Second World War in Chester, Clarissa fell in love with her opera teacher's son, John Bagnall. He was her soulmate in a marriage that brought them to Canada in 1953 and spanned 54 years. Clarissa was unique - talented, funny, eccentric and unforgettable. She could switch seamlessly from Italian to French to the Queen's English; she sang in the Winnipeg Philharmonic and Holy Trinity Choir and she was Area Commissioner of Girl Guides Canada. Her beautiful flowers and plants from Goodacre Florists thrilled brides and gardeners alike. She had a story for every occasion and took enormous pleasure in the accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. With her crochet, crosswords, chocolate and cuppa tea, Clarissa was content. She treasured the capable HomeCare team who made it possible for her to stay in her own home and was thankful for the care and compassion of her friend and physician, Dr. David Marsh. Celebrating her memory and cherishing her love are her children, Andrew (Gail), Jane (Graham Collins), Frank (Colleen); grandchildren, Blair, Drew, Brittany, Clarissa and Tyler Bagnall; and four beautiful great-grandchildren. A private family celebration of Clarissa's life will be held. Funeral Arrangements in Care of: Wheeler Funeral Home, Cemetery & Crematorium 1800 Day Street - 204-224-1525 Please sign the book of memories at www.wheelerfuneral.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 19, 2015

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

  • My deepest condolences to a family that was so kind to employ me when I was a newcomer to Winnipeg and only 17. I used to babysit little Blair and Drew for Gail and Andrew during the week and on Fridays Clarissa and John took me under wing and taught me floral decorating at the Greenhouse. I moved into the city as I grew restless in the country as a reckless teen. I never got to tell this family how much of a difference they made in my life back then. You all had faith in me and gave me a chance. Treated me like family. Thank you for that. I am 51 now and still in Winnipeg. May God keep you safe in his arms Clarissa and John. From your old friend Nadine that used to live in Pine Ridge Trailer Village Hwy 59. - Posted by: Nadine Duncan (Nicklen) (family friend) on: Feb 13, 2019

  • A sturdy and big boned lady with class, wisdom, compassion and a great sense of humour and very self affacing. A great love of horticulture especially of flowers. A friend of goats and of their products. A wife and mother with interests and culture transcending the home scene. In many ways an "old soul". To know, really know and understand here was to love here in all her diversity. A cultured woman but yet very down to earth and an excellent 'earth mother'. - Posted by: Michael Charney (knew her from1960 to1963, wife of John with whom I worked at Griffin Steel.) on: Jan 01, 2016

  • Frank, Coleen, and family: Sorry for your loss, please accept our condolences. - Posted by: Ray and Sharon (friends) on: Dec 21, 2015

  • I was very sad to hear of her passing. I spent many summers visiting the greenhouse and sharing stories. She would always cheer me up when I went to visit her, and I always enjoyed visiting the little dogs. She will be sadly missed, take care of the family enjoy everyday together! - Posted by: Evon Cook (Friend) on: Dec 21, 2015

  • I recall buying plants at GoodAcre on Garven Road and all the wonderful conversations and assistance I received from Mrs. Bagnall and her husband John. Always a positive experience and she obviously loved what she was doing. - Posted by: Barb Gyselinck (neighbourhood) on: Dec 20, 2015

  • It has been many, many years since I last saw and visited with Mrs Bagnall. In my younger University years I was friends with, and spent a great deal of time with Andrew, Jane and the rest of the wonderful family. As time passed we went our separate ways, but I will always remember Mrs Bagnall's warm and welcoming nature. My thoughts and condolences go out to the family. - Posted by: Bob Grodzik (Family Friend) on: Dec 19, 2015

  • Frank, very sad to hear of your mom's passing. I remember her as a wonderful lady in all respects. My sincere sympathies to you and your family. - Posted by: Cindy Meads (Edmonds) (Friend) on: Dec 19, 2015

  • Mrs.B led our Ranger group out of the library at the old Arthur Day school. I remember a tall, softly spoken nice lady. And Jane was much like her. The rest of us girls thought Andrew was so-o cute! We camped out one spring at their home at the north end of Day Street (it was Oxford back then)and got to ride Patches, their welsh pony. RIP, Mrs.B and condolences to the family. - Posted by: Bonnie (Ranger to Mrs.B's leadership role.) on: Dec 19, 2015

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