Florence AUSTIN

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

AUSTIN: Florence Elizabeth (Lorraine) (Saunders) passed away at Brandon Regional Health Centre on Tuesday, July 14, 2009 at the age of 83 years. She will be sadly missed by her children Norm (Elayne), Spruce Grove, Alberta, Lea (Bob Sept), Edmonton, Alberta, Bruce, Spruce Grove, Alberta, Eileen (Ken Milliken), Reston, Manitoba, Gloria (Philip Epp), Dauphin, Manitoba. Nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Norman (1982), an infant daughter, Elaine and her parents, John and Maud Saunders. Mom was born September 16, 1925 in London, England. She was fourteen years old when WWII broke out and like all children in London, was sent to the countryside for safety. Home sickness resulted in her return to London, ending her formal education and beginning her life in the work force. Mom worked on the London buses and it was during this time she met a young Canadian soldier and her life changed forever. Mom and Dad were married and she followed him back to Canada to the family farm at Dand, Manitoba and in doing so left behind all that was familiar to her. Her children will remain in awe of the courage and strength it must have taken to make a home so far away from the family she left behind, but she was determined to make Canada her home. She returned several times to England but always came back saying Canada will always be her home. She spent many hours tending her flower beds. Mom loved her flowers. She spent long days preserving the harvest from her vegetable garden. She was an excellent knitter, loved embroidery, cross stitch and all other handiwork. Many of these homemade items are shared with her family. Mom also enjoyed square dancing which she took up later in life. She loved music and knew the words to all the songs. She was a life member of the Virden Legion Ladies Auxiliary holding many offices from the branch to the zone level. She was always a willing worker and would help anyone who needed her assistance. A game of cards with family or friends brought much enjoyment to Mom. She was always interested in the activities of her family. Because she was an only child, her family was of most importance to her. It was a rare birthday of her children, grandchildren or friends that was not marked by a birthday card. She just never forgot. Dad passed away in 1982 and Mom continued to live independently looking after her home and flower beds until 2007, when she chose to make Victoria Landing in Brandon her home. The family would like to thank the staff and residents for making moms stay so enjoyable. She was very content there as she loved to be surrounded by people. She truly enjoyed the social activities. She seldom complained and as was her nature, made the best of every situation. She was truly a special lady, and a loving mom and grandma. We loved her dearly. Good night - God bless.

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 01, 2009