MAGDALENA MILLER (GIEL) (LENI)

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MAGDALENA MILLER
(nee GIEL)

Magdalena Miller passed away in the wee hours of October 26, 2020, at River Park Gardens Personal Care Home.
She was predeceased by her loving husband John, her grandson Jonathan Regnier, and grandson-in-law Mark Tilsma.
Left to cherish her memory are her son John Miller (Brenda) and daughter Lori Ann Regnier (Rene); grandchildren, Brian Miller (Gabrielle), Angela Bailey (Jonathan), Danielle Regnier, Eric Regnier (Shawna) and Stefan Regnier (Lauren Harris); great-grandchildren, Willow, Breah and Anna, and Magdalena's sister Anna Hahner.
Magdalena was born in the town of Schag, Banat, Romania on May 26, 1923. She fled Romania with her infant daughter while her husband was a soldier in the war. After the war, he joined her in Austria and they immigrated to Canada in 1952 with their two children and Magdalena's mother. They were enthusiastic to become Canadian and to learn the language of their new country. Magdalena used to say she learned to speak English from her children. She taught herself to read English just from reading the newspaper and magazines.
"Leni" was a friendly person with sparkling blue eyes and a generous heart. She was a talented cook. The family have fond memories of holidays, birthdays, and other occasions when we dined on her special treats like Dobos torte, plum dumplings, barley, and homemade strudel. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and months ago, she was able to hold her newest great grandchild, Anna. Well into her 80s, she was constantly busy with gardening, tending her many houseplants, volunteering, arts and crafts, knitting, and socializing at the St. Joseph's Seniors' Club.
As her memory and knees gave out, Leni recognized the need to live in an environment where she would have more personal assistance and social activities. She moved to Harmony Court until her health and physical needs necessitated a personal care facility.
We would like to thank the caregivers and other staff at Harmony Court (especially Bach House), where "Magda" lived for five years and enjoyed many activities and outings. She continued to see family regularly on holidays and other special events like the Regniers' 50th wedding anniversary party.
She loved going to church with Brenda, followed by brunch at the Millers, and a Sunday drive.
We would also like to acknowledge and thank the staff and caregivers at River Park Gardens, who have attempted to normalize the lives of the residents as much as possible during this difficult time. We were consistently comforted by the friendly atmosphere and level of care she received.
A private Funeral Mass will be held at Christ the King Church.

Thanks for the years you gave us
For the precious times we shared
We only hope that when you left us
You knew how much we cared.
God saw you getting tired
He was going to set you free
He put His arms around you
And said, "Come unto me."

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 31, 2020