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MARY JEAN (MICKEY) CLARK
Born: Jul 18, 1937
Date of Passing: Apr 21, 2023
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryMARY JEAN (MICKEY) CLARK
Our hearts are broken with the peaceful passing of our mom on April 21, 2023.
Mickey (née Mary Jean McNab) began her life in Swift Current, Saskatchewan on July 18, 1937. She was born to Jean and Spencer McNab and her dear brother Peter completed their family a few years later. Growing up in Moose Jaw, they spent summer vacations in Assiniboia with their grandparents, Sibby and Jim, as well as time in Government House with their grandfather, former Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan Archie (Edith) McNab which made for a wonderful childhood. Peter and Mom treasured their sibling bond and she looked forward to his visits and regular phone calls. They were blessed to share her final days.
Mickey reveled in the close bonds and many reunions with her childhood friends,the "King George Cuties".
After completing nursing school, Mom fulfilled her passion for caring for children at the Children's Hospital Emergency Department for over 30 years. She had a calming impact to all who came through the doors in crisis, with her gentle, warm hearted nature. Her empathy for everyone, no matter who, taught her children - Leslie (Groom), Cathy (Baker) and Joanne (Clark)- that everyone is worthy. She was liberal and considerate with her advice and many people went to her for guidance in times of need.
Mom and Ralph Lyndon, her beloved partner for more than 40 years, cherished their many friends in Winnipeg and in their winter home in Phoenix. Their cabin at West Hawk Lake was a highlight in the summer where they loved fishing and playing cards long into the night with their lake friends. It was clear to us that friendships are to be nurtured and cherished. Her exceptional group of girlfriends played a significant role in her life and ours. We are blessed to continue these friendships in her honour.
Her daughters and grandchildren were the light of her life and we were so fortunate to be on the receiving end of her abundant love. Regular Sunday dinners in our home provided a gathering place where all were welcome and traditions bloomed. While savouring her renowned cooking, we sat at the table for hours enjoying deep discussions well past the dinner hour. We continue those family meals at Cathy's table, grateful that she perfected Mom's cooking. We were raised in the summers in the idyllic setting of Victoria Beach where she was an active participant in the VB Classic golf tournament for many years with her long-time friends.
Left to mourn are her partner Ralph Lyndon, her brother Peter (Elana), her daughters, Leslie (Larry Groom), Cathy (Brad Baker) and Joanne Clark. Her grandchildren, Jon and Lauren Groom, Matthew (Brittney) and Ben (Kelsey) Garvey and Jackson Klewchuk brought her so much joy. Ralph's children, Lori Kretchmar (Dave), Gord Lyndon (Brenda) and their families (Brie Michael, Oliver, Otto) Matthew, Ryan, will miss her lively conversations. Her nieces, Christine (Julia) and Leah (Jon, Emma, Dylan) adored their Aunt Mickey. Cousin Wendy was very special to her. Her great- grandchildren, Isla, Cade and Jack were the apple of her eye.
We'd like to thank the caring staff at the Grace Hospital for making Mom comfortable in her final days. A private family celebration will be held at a later date.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 29, 2023
Condolences & Memories (13 entries)
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I was Mickeys partner when I first started in Childrens Emergency. I could not have had anyone send me a better gift She taught me the calmness, grace and advocacy that I needed as a new emergency nurse. Whether it was a resuscitation or triage, she always had a way of making things seem “ok” no matter what was happening. Her advocacy for patients and families was something we truly no longer see I appreciated and trusted her expertise and wisdom. She was my true mentor I continue to share my “Mickey Pearls” with new staff that I teach today. Love and respect you so much Mickey ❤️ - Posted by: Kathy Woloshyn (Free end and colleague ) on: Jun 09, 2023
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To Ralph, Leslie, Cathy, Joanne and family: I was very sorry to hear of Mickey's passing. I have many wonderful memories of us all down at Victoria Beach with our Moms (Mickey and Anne) as well as other friends. Your Mom was a wonderful lady. I hope you are all doing well and this sad time. Take Care. We will stop in on 5th this summer to catch up. Take care. Lori MacKelvie - Posted by: Lori MacKelvie (Family Friend) on: May 29, 2023
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. The news was a terrible shock to us - Posted by: Rod and Carol Picken (friends) on: May 10, 2023
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What lovely words chosen for such a beautiful woman. I remember her as all of those things. You were definitely blessed to have been able to call her mom. As you move forward, you will take her with you and the memories will be such a comfort for you. I’ve been told that heaven has no earthly time and one day she will turn around and say oh there you are. - Posted by: Jennifer gibb (Friend) on: May 07, 2023
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Mickey and Ralph were part of a great community in the Crescent Beach area of West Hawk Lake. Warm hospitality greeted everyone who visited their cottage. I am saddened to hear of Mickey's passing. She was a wonderful friend. To Ralph, Joanne, Leslie and Cathy and families, I am very sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Kevin Abrahams (friend) on: May 04, 2023
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I was very saddened to hear of the passing of my lovely friend Mickey. We had many fun days as children and our reunions of King George Cuties. Mickey encouraged me to become a nurse at Children’s Hospital. It was the best decision I made. Thanks to Mickey and I loved her forever. Condolences to Ralph, Peter and her girls and grandchildren. She was loved and will be missed. Gail Bedford - Posted by: Gail Bedford (Moose Jaw friend) on: May 04, 2023
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Dear Leslie, Cathy and Joanne - My deepest condolences to you and your families. Of course, my fondest memories of your Mom were at VB. All the fun we had at each other's cottages. The sleep overs, biking, swimming, candy necklaces and then off to the movie. Waking the scary path from your place to the bakery when it was dark out. Your Mom and my Mom laughing. What a time we all had. Lots of Love - Susan xxox - Posted by: Susan MacKelvie (Friend) on: May 03, 2023
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I was privileged to get to know Ralph and Mickey at West Hawk Lake; they were the cabin "up the hill". A steep climb up from the cabin in "the swamp" would reward you with a visit that could include lively conversation or a game of cards. Always a good time! My condolences Ralph, Mickey was a fine lady. - Posted by: Janice Land (friend) on: May 01, 2023
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I am sorry to hear that Mickey passed away. My special memories of her were always at the cottage where we shared many a laugh, especially playing cards. My condolences Ralph. - Posted by: Patrick Land (Friend) on: May 01, 2023
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Ralph, Leslie, Cathy, Joanne, Peter and Families; I was so very sorry and sad to read Mickey’s obituary. We had such great times when we were teenagers as well as when we were “old as dirt.” Our lovely memories will always be soothing reminders of the wonderful friendship we shared. We send our deepest sympathy to you during this very sad time. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. Darla and Lloyd Spicer - Posted by: Darla Spicer (King George Cuties ) on: Apr 30, 2023
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I am so sorry to hear of Mickey’s passing. She was a very special friend during our growing up years in Moose Jaw. Mickey was such a beautiful and caring person. I have happy memories of our Cuties Reunion at Cynthia’s cottage. It was so nice to meet Mickey’s daughters. May you all find comfort in the wonderful memories you shared as a family. With most sincere sympathy, Elsie and Gordon Eade - Posted by: Elsie Eade (Friend. King George cutie) on: Apr 30, 2023
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60 years ago I was fortunate enough to have been Mickey's babysitter to her beautiful little girls. Mickey always treated me as an equal and mentored me with kindness and humour through my turbulent teens. I continue to treasure those memories and my friendship with her darling daughters. 143 - Posted by: Anne Thornton Jones (Friend ) on: Apr 29, 2023
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Ralph, thinking of you at this sad time. Cherish those memories. Wally Neves - Posted by: Wally Neves (Friend) on: Apr 29, 2023