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SIDNEY PATRICIA WILLIAMSON (SID)
Born: Jun 28, 1960
Date of Passing: Jun 07, 2020
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
SIDNEY PATRICIA WILLIAMSON
June 28, 1960 - June 7, 2020
Sid lived her whole life with zest and enthusiasm. She brought that gift to everything she did. And that was a lot! Sid was a teacher, a mentor, an adventurer, a traveller, an athlete, a friend and confidante. She was fearless and ready to try anything. Always a giver, she had endless energy and her capacity for love knew no bounds. These traits served her well as an Air Force "brat". Sid was born in Sudbury in 1960, but didn't stay very long. The family moved frequently from one base to another, crisscrossing Canada. They arrived in Winnipeg in 1972, and it was here that Sidney found her home and put down roots. She was outgoing and gregarious and made many friends. Sid lost her mother in 1973 when she was only 13 years old. She grew even closer to her father, but tragically lost him in 1980. Sid was also predeceased by her brother Ted (2005), nephew Wilfred (2007), and her mother-in-law Antonia (2019).
Sid and her siblings turned to each other with each of these losses. They not only carried on together, but found joy and renewed appreciation for life, and all that the world still offered. Sid leaves that legacy to her family and her daughters.
While attending high school in Winnipeg, Sid met the man she would later marry, John Vosters. After they bought their home, Sid began working on her Education Degree. This was happily interrupted by the births of her three daughters, Erin Marie (1987), Megan Helene (1989) and Breda Louise (1991). Of all the many things that Sid would go on to do and accomplish, nothing brought her greater joy and satisfaction than raising her three precious girls. Sid attained her Education Degree in 1994. Upon graduating she began working for Winnipeg School Division One. Her career spanned many schools and passions. She began her work in Winnipeg's inner city before she moved to a long tenure at Laura Secord School. Here she taught the Grade 4/5/6 alternative class. She then spent some time teaching at Grosvenor School before returning to the inner city and King Edward School. Sidney was an innovative and wonderfully supportive teacher.
Sid was always doing things for her students above and beyond her classroom duties. She loved organizing extracurricular groups for them, especially running club, and fostering learning opportunities outside of the classroom for her kids. And they were "her" kids. Sid's students all consider themselves lucky to have had her as a teacher, and she remained in touch with many of her students and their families long after they "graduated" from her class. She was deeply committed to equity and justice and to ensuring equal access to education for all young learners.
In 2018, Sid moved into a role as an Inquiry Support teacher, with this last year spent at Shaughnessy Park School. This enabled her to use her knowledge and experience to help classroom teachers better support their students. She loved this work and used her own passion for learning and striving for excellence to give her very best to this new role. Sid was invited to serve with The Library of Parliament's Teachers Institute on Canadian Parliamentary Democracy, which she enjoyed immensely. Having dealt with adversity all her life, Sid remained highly adaptive over the course of the last few months throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Sid worked with her colleagues to make sure that her students and parents received breakfast deliveries along with learning packages and internet access. She had an instinctive affinity for the underdog and an unshakeable belief that we could make change in our world.
Our mother was an incredible person; she lit up the room with her smile and her laugh. "Hi Sweetie" was her greeting - and she meant that each and every time. She could dance for hours and then talk with you all night. She loved running, curling, golfing, hiking, skiing, canoeing and gardening (to name a few). One of her many accomplishments was climbing Mont Blanc, which provided her with a great sense of pride. She loved literature, the visual arts, theatre, and Marvel movies. She got great happiness from what many of us consider the little things in life, though part of what made her so special was that they never seemed too little to her. She enjoyed entertaining people and was always the life of the party. She travelled extensively and made friends wherever she went. In 2018, she took us with her on a trip to Newfoundland and reconnected with family there. She kissed a cod, watched whales and puffins, and took in her mother's home with us by her side. She raised money for many causes and was always ready to organize a celebration - she loved to celebrate others' achievements and milestones. Sidney had many gifts, not the least of which was the ease with which she made and kept so many friends.
She shone brightly and we
have lost her far too soon.
Goodbye Sweetie. Our hearts go with you.
It saddens us that due to COVID-19 restrictions we are unable to physically include all who loved Sid and were loved by her. We will be providing a live stream for those who cannot attend in person, and will provide further information regarding link access later this week (likely via social media).
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Brain Food, a literacy organization for youth that was close to Sid's heart.
Private interment to follow, where Sid will be laid to rest with her beloved father.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 17, 2020
Condolences & Memories (28 entries)
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Heartfelt condolences to Sid's girls and family. I will miss her "Hi Sweetie" greeting at the Reh-Fit. Sid's love for her girls and passion as an educator always shined during our brief, but frequent interactions at the gym. She touched many lives and her memory will live on forever. - Posted by: Stephanie Kereliuk (Friend from the gym) on: Jun 26, 2020
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I am so deeply sorry and sad to hear of this great loss in the world. Sid was truly a special light in the universe. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. - Posted by: Desiree (neighbour) on: Jun 23, 2020
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My most heartfelt condolences to the family. I met Sid at one of Rose H's gathering. Over the years there were many of those and Sid would always take the time to talk and sincerely ask, How are you? This world has lost a great person. I am so sorry for your loss and our loss. Sincerely, Barb Funk - Posted by: Barb Funk (A friend. ) on: Jun 22, 2020
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I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your visits to Holland. I got to know you all in such a short time, but it meant a lot to me. I recognize your mother in all the beautiful words you have written. You all have her generous smile. Lots of love - Posted by: Evelien Lauwers (Family from Holland/Belgium) on: Jun 22, 2020
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Sid had such an amazing spirit and energy. I have so many fond memories of her from time around Pan Am pool and hanging out around the house with Erin. Truly a life always lived to the fullest. Sending my deepest condolences. - Posted by: Tyler Megarry (Friend) on: Jun 21, 2020
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Heartfelt condolences to Sid’s family. I first met her when she was my cooperating teach at Sister Mac., when I was in teacher training through the U of W. She had the ability to foster community whereever she went and made all her students and fellow educators feel so special and supported. Sid loved her students and co-workers and was a passionate and thoughtful teacher. She also contributed greatly to the sport of Water Polo in the province and my children were able to participate in the sport because of her initiatives. Her generous, warm, positive, outgoing spirit and vibrant light will be missed. ❤️ Goodbye and thank you “Sweetie”! - Posted by: Karla Dueck Thiessen (Student/Co-worker) on: Jun 21, 2020
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Thank you, Sid for being such an amazing friend and inspiration. I am a better teacher and person because of you. Rest well, Sweetie. - Posted by: Erin Porter (Colleague and friend) on: Jun 20, 2020
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Sid was a protector of one of my girls who was being bullied. She made that extra effort as a teacher.. so appreciated. She was a wonderful human and teacher. We are poorer without her. Condolences to her family and to all those who love her. - Posted by: Kathleen Black (Parent of 2 of her former students ) on: Jun 20, 2020
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I had the pleasure of getting to know Sid when our children played water polo together. Sid had the amazing ability to make you feel like the most important person in the world. She will be truly missed. To Erin, Megan, and Breda-the Bredin family send you our deepest sympathies. - Posted by: Tammy Bredin (Water Polo) on: Jun 19, 2020
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Syd was kind. A lot of things have rattled through my brain since she died. Her kindness stands out the most. Whether fostering growth in her students or encouraging them to get in the pool, she was kind. She was warm. That's a rare thing. But a good one. It's been years since I saw Syd regularly, as a student or at the pool. But every time I did — she was kind, warm, caring — really interested. Just months ago, I ran into her on the street — I had moved into an apartment just blocks from her new home. From about 15 feet away, she issued her typical refrain: 'hi sweetie.' I'm glad I got those precious few moments with her. My deepest condolences to her children and everyone else Syd loved. There's too many to name. - Posted by: Erik Pindera (Former student) on: Jun 19, 2020
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To Sid’s wonderful girls and to Shelagh, Tracey and Jimmy. To all of the nieces and nephews and huge family of friends. We were so deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of this amazing woman. My family grew up alongside the Williamson’s in Southport from 1965 to 1967. I remember Sid so well and that was such a long time ago. The Koslo’s send such love and healing thoughts. Corrine Koslo - Posted by: Corrine Koslo (Family Friend) on: Jun 19, 2020
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Sid did not just light up every room...she lit up life. She was one of the warmest, kindest, most genuine people I have ever known. No matter how you were feeling, your day was always that much better after spending time with Sid. She loved life and truly loved people. This is a terrible loss for those who knew her and those who would have been blessed to know her in the future. My sincerest condolences to her girls and all in her family. - Posted by: Chris (friend) on: Jun 19, 2020
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Erin, Megan and Breda, my deepest condolences for the loss of your amazing mother. Sid was truly the most special person I knew. She was always kind, caring, outgoing and saw the best in everyone she met. She blessed my life with her friendship and I can’t imagine not seeing her or hearing her call me « sweetie » again. May you find some comfort knowing how loved your mother truly was. She will be forever missed.. - Posted by: Nelia Marchione (School friend) on: Jun 18, 2020
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Sid was one of the exceptional few that come along in a lifetime, and leave the world a better place for having been. I will miss her deeply and send much love to her treasured daughters Erin, Megan and Breda. - Posted by: Jill (Friend) on: Jun 18, 2020
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Sid’s kindness and all around enthusiasm and joy for life will be greatly missed. Her wonderful daughters and everyone she has connected with are a true testament of her legacy. - Posted by: Mike Reid (Water Polo) on: Jun 18, 2020
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I know Sid through our interactions at the Spain Pavilion where she was always a happy and a collaborative volunteer. She was kind to everyone. She was a friend who you made easily. No dramas, no problems with her. Just a wonderful lady! My condolences to the family. You were fortunate to have had her in your circle of love. - Posted by: Clara (Friends ) on: Jun 18, 2020
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You girls have written the most beautiful tribute to a most beautiful woman.. nothing more to add here except that I will miss her very much. - Posted by: Lucy gwozdz (Friend) on: Jun 18, 2020
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Dear Erin, Megan and Breda. We sit in her backyard sharing our stories. Her smile illuminates onto the next door neighbors up on their roof. I say to her, "You must know them well." She is beaming her radiant smile and replies, "No, not really". Sid loved well...so well. And we who knew her know this to be a truth. Your mother was the equivalent to a Saint. I will forever call her, with the deepest of respect, "Saint Sid". - Posted by: Donna (Friend) on: Jun 17, 2020
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I was shocked and saddened to hear that Sid had passed. Condolences to her family especially her sisters. The world is a little less joyful now if that is even possible. Ride On Sid...you done good while you were among us! - Posted by: Jeff Monk (Friend) on: Jun 17, 2020
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This is such difficult news. My daughters are shocked and saddened, as Sid was a major influence in their lives. I echo Elise's words - Sid was the kind of person who lives in you and makes you a better person. She was one of those unbelievably beautiful people that can turn a bad day into a good one just by her smile and "Hi Sweetie". And a hug - every time! My condolences to her family. We have lost a gem. - Posted by: Anita Lebeau (Friends) on: Jun 17, 2020
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Hello Megan, Breda and Erin. I was devastated to hear of the passing of Sid. She was always such a welcoming, caring, giving and energetic lady who made everyone feel so special with her "Hi Sweetie" greeting. Sid used that as her trademark but she made you feel like it was only meant for you every time she said it. There was such warmth when you heard it directed to you, it was so genuine or real every single time. Sid made you feel like seeing you was that special to her, the greatest thing in her day - it made you feel special. Few people have that special ability. I met Sid over 40 years ago through the Vosters family and I never had a bad visit with your Mom. Sid always brightened my day and made me laugh. You have written a beautiful Obituary of Sid's life but I must say words cannot do justice to how, to use your word, "incredible" Sid was. I am so so sorry for your loss and I know words are not enough but CHERISH the unbelievably wonderful memories you have of your mother. Sid raised 3 wonderful beautiful young ladies and you are her legacy, I know how proud she was of you and how much she loved you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love from the Nelissen Family. - Posted by: Ferdi Nelissen (Family) on: Jun 17, 2020
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Deep condolences to Sid's family. We lived a block away and our kids went to school together for several years. I so admired Sid's amazing spirit and, like all who knew her, I always felt the bright energy of her sunny 'vibe' whenever she was around. Along with David and Emily, my heart goes out to everyone close to Sid for your profound loss. - Posted by: Kathy Penner (former neighbour) on: Jun 17, 2020
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Erin, Megan, and Breda. We were so very sad to hear of the loss of your beloved mother. Your touching words captured Sid's essence so beautifully. We hope that loving memories of your mom ease your grief and bring you and your family some comfort. - Posted by: Barry, Lorna, and Liam (Friends) on: Jun 17, 2020
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I have many memories of Sid as I knew her in many different ways throughout the years. She made a huge impression on me when I first met her (she student taught in Helena’s grade 1/2/3 class at Laura Secord) . I remember her warmth and her energy and how she made everyone around her feel seen and important. Yes, she called everyone, including me “sweetie” , and I found it charming. She made a strong connection with my daughter Veda and she was a passionate advocate for other students, especially those who needed an advocate. Once I became a teacher we worked next door to one another at Laura Secord. Sid was welcoming and kind to a me as a team member. There are numerous times In the last 28 years that our paths have intersected and I always felt as if no time had passed since I last saw her. Sid knew how to make everyone feel special. As well as being a talented, passionate educator she had so many other gifts. My condolences to everyone who loved Sid, but especially her daughters Erin, Megan and Breda. Your Mom loved you so much and she loved being a Mom.I know she was very proud of you all. - Posted by: Yohanna Koncan (Friend/colleague / parent ) on: Jun 17, 2020
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This is a beautiful capsulation of Sid's all too short life. Sid was always positive, encouraging, smart, compassionate, active, aware and certainly the life of the party or whatever organization or activity she gave her time to and there were many. I will miss her forever. My heart goes out to Sid's three girls and to her devoted family. You have lost a jewel. I know though she will live on in you, in fact, in all of us forever. Sid will not be forgotten and she will always be in my thoughts and in my actions. She made me a better person. I know she did that for many. Love to you Erin, Megan and Breda and to all of Sid's family. With deep sadness, Elise. - Posted by: Elise Swerhone (friend) on: Jun 17, 2020
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John, so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you & your family. - Posted by: Tim Picken (Friend of husband) on: Jun 17, 2020
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This has been such a sad week. I loved your mom. It's so easy to write or talk about her because she always lived life to the fullest and walked the walk. Sid made everyone want to be better, because she was so good. Life is precious. On Thursday I had asked her to come out to our lake to chill. On Friday she was gone. Good bye my sweet friend. You are gone but will never be forgotten. Long live your energy! Rest now, sweetie. - Posted by: Kathy Gerylo (Lucky friend) on: Jun 17, 2020
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I don't even know where to start. Sid was the bright light at RehFit. I could always count on a bright cheery smile with a "hey sweetie" as we were rushing to class where we laughed and groaned our way through classes. I will miss her beyond belief. I can't believe she is gone. To her daughters: your mom was beyond special (but I guess you know that already). I am thinking of you all. I hope and pray that your memories will carry you through this incredibly difficult time. Just know how many lives she touched - including mine. - Posted by: Audrey Penner (friend) on: Jun 17, 2020