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PHYLLIS KATHLEEN RUMSEY
Born: Sep 01, 1926
Date of Passing: May 11, 2020
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to Winnipeg Humane Society
PHYLLIS KATHLEEN RUMSEY
Mum was born September 1, 1926, to Arthur and Bridget North in Aldershot, England, which was also Home to the British Army. Being in an Army Family, Mum lived some of her early years in Egypt, Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan.
Eventually she met William Rumsey, a young Captain in the Canadian Army, who was stationed in England. He asked her to marry him and begin the next adventure of her life in Canada. Mum and Dad were married in 1949, had four children and spent the next 52 years together until Dad passed in 2001.
Fortunately for Mum, Dad worked at Air Canada so she had ample opportunities to visit her family in the United Kingdom as well as some memorable trips to Japan, Hong Kong, and Italy.
Mum was gracious, dignified, took great pride in her personal appearance and probably had too many pairs of shoes.
She found tremendous joy in being an active parishioner of St. Bernadette Parish, and was a longtime member of the Ladies Craft Group.
She was a dedicated full time Mum but still managed to fit in some part time Customer Service employment where there was never a better Ambassador. As her own children grew older Mum became a most cherished and greatly appreciated child care giver to many young families. Mum was always assisting others, volunteering at Chez Nous shelter and for many years giving comfort and companionship to patients at St. Boniface Hospital.
Mum was a very skilled knitter who continued while at Tuxedo Villa to make countless scarves for less fortunate school children.
Mum loved her home on Bittersweet Bay, the Queen and the Monarchy, all animals especially her beloved cats, walking, and for someone who never drove - riding her bike everywhere until in her late 80s.
Mum, along with Dad, was a great supporter of our sports careers. She was always there cheering for us. Mum easily made many friends in both the University of Manitoba Bison and Nicolett Inn Basketball Families and will be greatly missed.
During her journey on earth Mum touched the lives of so many. She had a beautiful smile, a gentle spirit, and an engaging personality. She is best described as "the sweetest, kindest person ever" and made a lasting impression on everyone she met. She loved her family and almost as importantly loved and welcomed all of our friends.
Mum has now joined Dad and her brother Ken, and leaves Darryl and Gloria (Adam and Tiffany and great-grandson Brock; Myles and Kaira), Brian and Linda, Maureen and Rick (Keith, James).
Mum also leaves her youngest daughter Janet with whom she had a very special relationship. Throughout Mum's life Janet was a continuous ray of sunshine.
A "Very Big Thank You" to everyone (especially Station 1) at Tuxedo Villa who were always there to take care of our Mum.
If desired, friends may make a donation in Mum's name to the Winnipeg Humane Society.
Mum was the spark that lit the room and did not live an ordinary life, but rather an extraordinary one.
Thank you for being a wonderful role model.
We learned, we laughed, we loved
and we all became better people.
We love you Mum.
Our sincere thanks to Chapel Lawn for their assistance. Make a donation to

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 16, 2020
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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Mrs Rumsey was like a second mum to me. She was always patient, and kind, and loved her family. She had a wonderful sense of humour, and touched everyone she met with her generous soul. Daryl, Brian, Maureen, and Janet will miss her greatly, but a little bit of her spirit will carry on in them. Everyone who knew Phyllis will remember her. - Posted by: Catherine (Tagg) Janssen (Friend) on: May 19, 2020
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My condolences to each of you....I remember your mom very well....may your memories bring you comfort. Debi Provost - Posted by: Debi Provost (Family friend) on: May 18, 2020
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I was young but I always remember Phyllis, I would be driving home from work and offer a ride by St B but she would mostly decline. She loved riding her bike. SHE WAS ALWAYS SMILING. She would always tell me how proud of me she was and I will never forget that! A beautiful amazing woman! #bittersweetstrong! - Posted by: kristin olensky-taylor (Neighbors ) on: May 18, 2020
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My thoughts and prayers go out to the Rumsey family. I knew Mrs. Rumsey since I was in grade school and will always remember her as a gracious lady and always fun to speak with. She was a good supportive friend to my mother until she passed away in 2010. Neither death nor time will ever be enough to erase those happy times we shared here on earth together. Rest in peace Mrs. Rumsey. A life well lived. - Posted by: John Nakielny (Windsor Park friend) on: May 17, 2020
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My sincere condolences to the whole family on the loss of your mum and grandmum. - Posted by: Sandra Lafontaine (windsor park classmate) on: May 17, 2020
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Your mom certainly had a lot accomplished between the years in her dash ! I am sorry to read of her passing but will always remember her strength and refusal to let life pass her by without being an adventurous soul. - Posted by: Laurie Gydé (Friend from Windsor park collegiate) on: May 16, 2020
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To Darryl, Brian, Maureen and Janet and also their families. My warm caring thoughts are with you guys. You will miss your Mom. She sure loved you guys. You know you filled her life with joy. I liked your Mom and always enjoyed bumping into her over the years. She was the kind of person you always felt better after you spoke to her. Again, I am sorry for your loss. I care about all you guys too. Your friend, Neil. - Posted by: Neil Grafton (Friend) on: May 16, 2020
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I did not know Mrs. Rumsey well, but she was always friendly to me even when I was the opposition to her sons' teams. She was a great and faithful fan of the game of basketball. She will be missed. Sincere condolences to Darryl. Brian, Maureen, and the entire family. We hope that all the great memories you have of your mom will help you through this difficult time. - Posted by: Ross Wedlake (friend) on: May 16, 2020
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We first met Phyllis when she worked at Quinton's. She was known as "Mom" to Ray (former Quinton driver). We continued to communicate and visit with her and Janet over the years, until the house was sold and unable to contact either. Our thoughts and prayers to Janet and her family. Lorena and Ray Reimer - Kelowna, B.C. Tracy and Tara - Ile des Chenes, MB - Posted by: Lorena Reimer (Friend ) on: May 16, 2020