MARY CARROLL PATERSON

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MARY CARROLL PATERSON On January 21, 2016, after living more than a century of enormous changes, Mary Paterson's full, rich life ended peacefully in Dunedin, Florida in her 103rd year. She was predeceased by her husband John Cooper Paterson in 1981. Left with loving memories of their mother are: her son Donald, daughter-in-law Lynne, grandsons Andrew and Duncan, his wife Shannon, and great-granddaughters Isabella and Serena Paterson, all of Winnipeg; granddaughter Heather Paterson and Justin Dagger and great-grandchildren Elise and Jake Dagger, all of Sydney, Australia; her daughter Sheila, son-in-law Bruce and granddaughter Cheryl Peters, all of Toronto; grandson Gene Peters, his wife Cyndi, and great-granddaughters Danielle and Rebecca Peters, all of Cincinnati. She was a favourite Aunt Mary to many Paterson and Carroll families. Mary is also missed by her dear sister-in-law Mary Paterson of Oceanside, CA. Mary grew up among a close and large, extended family in Miller (Gary), Indiana where she met John Cooper Paterson, a fun-loving, hard-working Scottish immigrant. Their beautiful wedding took place August 1, 1936. John's career with Sears took them to many American and Canadian cities, the last of which was Winnipeg, where he opened the first Sears store here at Polo Park. Mary had a busy and enjoyable life here, active in the American Women's Club and volunteer work at Middlechurch Home, making friends through the business community and social clubs. Don enrolled at University of Manitoba and made Winnipeg home, leading to decades of visits by Mary marking many family milestones. She loved white Christmases with grandchildren and special pets, and spectacular sunsets in good company at Victoria Beach. Settling in Dunedin, Florida, after John's retirement, their home and pool became the center for enjoying four generations of relatives and friends. They travelled the world, belonged to many social and charitable organizations, but their favourite was the Clearwater Yacht Club where John was Commodore. Mary had to learn the lingo' of the water, pass navigation courses, and recognize the burgees. They had so much fun cruising to other Florida clubs, dinners and parties, especially New Year's Eve. They joined St. Mark Lutheran Church and were faithful parishioners all their lives. Mary celebrated her 100th birthday at a wonderful party at Mease Manor (her home since 2006) auditorium. Friends and relatives from near and far attended, and many greetings from those who couldn't were received. A picture display followed Mary's life and it's most special moments, especially her wedding, brought happy memories to her and the guests. Members of St. Mark made a lovely presentation to her, everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet followed by singing Happy Birthday and a champagne toast. Mary was delighted to greet and thank all her guests for such a memorable occasion. Mary Paterson was a kind, loving, generous and completely selfless person. Her devotion to her family was boundless and unconditional, and in return, she was truly loved by all - a beautiful lady inside and out. She was so thankful for everything she had and did, regularly Counting her Blessings', and encouraging us all to do so as well. A true sharing, caring Christian who lived by The Golden Rule. Her memory will be cherished. Cremation has taken place, and a Celebration of Mary's Life was held January 28 at St. Mark Lutheran Church, Dunedin, where she had worshipped and served for half her life. Her ashes were placed beside her husband John's ashes so they will Rest In Peace Together Forever. Should friends wish, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Winnipeg Foundation 204-944-9474, or a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 27, 2016