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MERLE MADELEINE MCLEOD
Born: Nov 17, 1929
Date of Passing: Mar 23, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMERLE MADELEINE MCLEOD (nee HETHERINGTON) Merle Madeleine McLeod (nee Hetherington), born November 17, 1929 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, lived in Winnipeg and spent every summer at the family cottage on Lake of the Woods. Merle resided for the past seven years at the Rosewood Supportive Housing. Merle died March 23, 2017 due to congestive heart failure. Merle was predeceased by her husband Garth, of 41 years, (in December 1996), and is survived by her children Jennifer (Sharon), Heather (Brad), Mark (Tracy) and Melanie (Andy). She was grandmother to 10 and great-grandmother to 10. Merle is also survived by her only sister Arlene (Glen), her sister-in-law Val, and numerous nieces and nephews. Merle valued education. She attended Kelvin High and then went onto University of Manitoba to complete her Bachelor of Science degree. Following her degree she worked at the University of Manitoba medical college doing research under the supervision of Dr. Delory. In 1955, Merle married Garth and raised their four children in Fort Garry and at the family cottage on Lake of the Woods. Merle resumed her working career at the University of Manitoba Library after the youngest child, Melanie started school. Merle then went onto the Legislative Library until her retirement at age 65. She was an active volunteer with the Manitoba Theatre Centre, Winnipeg Art Gallery, and Assiniboine Park Conservatory. Merle and Garth shared a passion for travel and upon Garth's retirement, they saw the wonders of the world. Summers were always spent at the camp in Kenora with children and grandchildren. Merle spent hours painting, sewing or gardening at the lake and taught the values of hard work and determination to all of her children. She had a deep passion for living life to its fullest and instilling the deep love for family. She encouraged higher learning ,the possibilities of education and to seize all opportunities in order to be the best one can be. Merle guided her four children through their lives with her wisdom, humour and love. The ongoing generation of grandchildren and great-grandchildren have been deeply influenced by Merle's legacy. The family extends their heartfelt thanks to Sandra Rettie for her three years of companionship, friendship and support of Merle. Many thanks to Gayleen and Aisha at the Rosewood for their care of Merle. At Merle's request, there will be no service. A memorial fund has been set up in Merle's name with Literacyworks, 204-784-5502. Please mail donations to: Literacy Works Inc., 510-300 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0C4.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 01, 2017
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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My condolences to the McLeod family. I am very sorry for your loss. I met Merle through Garth in 1987. At the time Garth was working as a bursar at St John College on the campus of University of Manitoba. He was actively involved in making international students like me feel welcome. There was once he played the piano for me knowing I had been watching others playing the instruments outside a classroom at St. John College. Garth was more than a mentor to me. Not only did he introduce me to the Canadian lifestyles and values, he also guided me along when I ran into some difficulty at school. There were a few occasions he took me home for a quick lunch and I met Merle sometimes. They were super kind towards me. I vividly remember he bought me a birthday present (a pair of bright colored shorts and a checkered shirt for the upcoming summer) and I was so surprised he knew my date of birth. After my graduation in 1988, I did have a chance in 1999 to visit Winnipeg from Malaysia. I thought I would have a chance to meet up with Garth and thank him in person for giving me a lot of guidance while I was a uni student, but Merle told me over the phone that Garth had passed on. I broke down crying over the phone. Merle then invited me over to their family home in Fort Garry which was designed by Garth. Merle was so kind that she gave me a book Garth used to read and a tie he used to wear as momento which I’m forever grateful to her gracious gesture. Every now and then I think of my university life in Winnipeg, I think of both Merle and Garth very fondly. I am forever indebted to Merle and Garth’s generosity, guidance and friendship. I am so lucky to have met wonderful souls like Garth and Merle. I miss them dearly. Love from Kevin Liew, Melbourne, Australia - Posted by: Kevin Liew (Friend of Garth McLeod ) on: Jun 29, 2022
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Heartfelt condolences to the McLeod children and their families. Very fond memories of my childhood years on Nesbitt Bay. Garth and Merle were always so good to the many, O'Neill children, wandering in and out of their home. One of the nicest families I have ever known! - Posted by: Louise O'Neill (Childhood friend of the family) on: Apr 04, 2017
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My deepest sympathy to Merle's family on hearing of Merle's passing. I worked with Merle at the Manitoba Legislative Library where I appreciated her great knowledge and work ethics as well as wit, humour and friendliness. She was devoted to her wonderful family. Merle was an inspiration to all family and friends. - Posted by: Jeanette Kirk (Friebd) on: Apr 02, 2017
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Such sad news, but we shall cherish the memories of having known Merle, especially with her wealth of knowledge she shared with us at Lake of the Woods. Our very sincere condolences to all the family, sincerely Ruby and John Parzych. - Posted by: Ruby and John parzych (Friend and mother and father in law to mark ) on: Apr 01, 2017