FRANCES BAIRD

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FRANCES BAIRD December 20, 1930 January 14, 2018 Frances Baird, peacefully, in her room at Jackson Creek Retirement Residence, Peterborough, Ontario, in her 87th year. Survived by husband John Marshall Baird and daughter Leanne Frances Baird, sister Violet Cherney, Winnipeg, MB and brother Peter Edwards, BC. Predeceased by sisters, Helen Berezowski, Stella Zolondek, Jane Martens and brothers, John Stevenson and Walter Zalusky. Frances was the daughter of Katie and Steve Zalusky (deceased). Born in Libau, Manitoba and raised on a family farm, Frances was a studious child who received her education as a legal secretary. She then moved to Toronto and worked for one of the city's most prominent criminal lawyers at the time. She met John at a private flying club in Locust Hill, Ontario, and they married in 1961. They settled in Markham, Ontario, where their only child Leanne was born. Frances was a lover of life. She enjoyed socializing and had friendships with people from various cultures. Her adventurous nature allowed her to enjoy many different ethnic holidays and cuisine. She particularly enjoyed the company of children and animals. Her house was often the place where the neighbourhood children gathered and where various animals found a home. Frances's many interests included horticulture, crafting, book clubs and lawn bowling. Euchre at the Seniors Centre was a favourite pastime. Her love of travel took her to Europe, Egypt, Hawaii, Florida, Arizona, California, Mexico, Bahamas, Bermuda, Barbados, Grenada and she travelled by train across Canada into Haida Gwaii. Frances had a good positive attitude even in the face of adversity, when she was diagnosed with cancer five years ago. Her mischievous sense of humour and storytelling was a trait that often disarmed people and her lightheartedness brought a smile to many faces. She will be greatly missed. As per Frances's request, there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life is planned for spring.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 27, 2018