MARGARET

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MARGARET McDONALD On Thursday, April 6, Angels wrapped their arms around my mother and took her spirit on a sacred journey. During these past months as her body submitted to the cancer (melanoma), Mom showed great courage, dignity and a "fighting-Irish" spirit. Her light now shines beyond forever. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband John; her beloved son Joe; her granddaughter Bebe; her mother and father; her siblings, Wilfred (Duffy), Jack, Isobel. Kay Wallace (Cartwright, MB) will miss her "kid" sister. Margaret will live in the heart of her daughter Sheila (Doug) Mymryk. She will be remembered with love by members of her extended family and special friends. Margaret was born near Cartwright, MB. She was the second youngest child of James and Sarah Ellison. After graduation from High School, Margaret furthered her education in Winnipeg. She was employed with the Cockshutt Plow Company and modelled for the Hudsons Bay Company. A few years after Margaret married John McDonald, their lifes journey took them to Boissevain, MB. They believed a successful community needed active commitment and participation. To this end, over many years, they dedicated themselves to the community of Boissevain and area. This attitude was a positive inspiration in their childrens lives. Mom was an active community worker; held various offices with the IODE: was a Rebecca Lodge Member; taught Sunday School for many years at St. Pauls United Church (where she retained her membership) was an avid curler. John and Marg taught Square and Round Dancing in Manitoba, Canada and the U.S.A. as well, they travelled extensively on vacations. Mom was the key organizer of the W.J. (Joe) McDonald North American Native Resource Centre established in 1996 at the Boissevain Library through a bequest from her son Joe. In the 1950s, Mom began her role as a working mother outside the home. She was employed with the Provincial Government, Land Titles Office, working her way to deputy of the District Registrar and Acting Assistant District Registrar. She was the first female in Manitoba to hold this position. When the Boissevain LTO was closed, she was transferred to Winnipeg where she resided until her death. In Winnipeg, Mom volunteered with Age and Opportunity and Creative Retirement. She particularly found rewarding, her work in the area of elder abuse. Moms love of sports continued throughout her life, Baseball was a passion. She was a season ticket holder of the Winnipeg Goldeyes from its inception. Mom was a caring, intelligent and thoughtful lady. She was the kind of friend most people can only dream of having. She always had time to say a friendly "hello" to all who crossed her path. She was a passionate crusader for the disadvantaged. She loved a good debate. Mom had a quick wit and shared many laughs with family and friends. Her nieces and nephews held a special place in her heart. We will remember her for all these things, in addition to her deep faith and spiritual strength. In honour of Moms life, a Memorial Service will be held in the Chapel of Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main St., on Tuesday, April 11, at 2:00 p.m., Rev. Karen Toole officiating. Funeral Service will be held at St. Pauls United Church, Boissevain, MB, on Wednesday, April 12 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Harvey Hurren officiating. Mom loved flowers. Flowers gratefully accepted in the spirit of love, friendship and remembrance. Donations may be sent to the CNIB, 1080 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3G 3M3 or The Humane Society, 5 Kent Street, Winnipeg, MB R2L 1X3. Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN EDEN FUNERAL HOME 4477 MAIN STREET 338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 08, 2000