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ROSEMARY ELIZABETH THORKELSON
Born: Jun 01, 1945
Date of Passing: Oct 21, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryROSEMARY ELIZABETH THORKELSON
Rosemary Elizabeth Thorkelson was the daughter of Mary and Tom Bjornson of Riverton, Manitoba.
Growing up on a farm near Riverton and attending school in town, she had many fond memories of being taken to school by horse and sleigh, cuddling down in the hay or straw to keep warm on those cold winter mornings.
Rosemary eventually worked at the bank in Riverton, and it was there that she met Philip. After a short, whirlwind courtship, they were married in 1968.
Together they had two sons, Conrad and Jason. She loved those boys fiercely and, at times, could be a real Mama Bear!
Rosemary and Philip lived in Eddystone, a place she truly loved. As she always said, “The people are just so nice.”
Later, they moved to Arborg, where Rosemary continued working and became involved in many community organizations, always willing to volunteer her time for the benefit of the community in which she lived. But she always enjoyed coming home to Riverton.
Rosemary was loved for her quick wit, tremendous sense of humour and the laughter she brought to those around her.
Sadly, Rosemary passed away on October 21, 2026, leaving to cherish her memory her husband Philip; her son Conrad; her brother Tom and his wife Shelley and their family; as well as numerous cousins and in-laws, all of whom she loved dearly.
Rosemary was predeceased by her beloved son, Jason.
A special thank-you to Val Jonson, the first responders, and the entire emergency team at the Gimli Hospital for their kindness, compassion and care. Your efforts were deeply appreciated.
A Celebration of Life for Rosemary will take place at the Riverton Community Hall on November 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Everyone is very welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rosemary’s memory may be made to either: Arborg & District Multicultural Heritage Village, Box 4007, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0 or Diabetes Canada at www.diabetes.ca
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 31, 2026