ELIZABETH FINGAS

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

ELIZABETH FINGAS Peacefully on Sunday, August 6, 2000, Jesus called Elizabeth home after a long battle with Alzheimers. Elizabeth leaves to mourn her husband Ernie of 56 years; children, Betty Ann (Rick) Spencer, Wayne (Donna), Ronald (Sally), Gerald (Cynthia) 11 grandchildren, Tammy; Amy and Kerri; Raymond, James, Danny, John and Stephen; Nicole, Christopher and Michael; her brother Rudy (Dorothy) and sister Georgina McKenzie and numerous in-laws. She was predeceased by her parents; five brothers and seven sisters. Elizabeth was born November 29, 1918 in Langenburg, SK. She grew up and attended school in Shellmouth. Elizabeth enjoyed writing poetry and stories and loved singing. She attended Normal School in Winnipeg followed by her first teaching assignment in Freefield where she met Ernie. She became a successful farm wife and eight years later the family moved to Inglis, MB to operate a general store. A fire, four years later, necessitated a move to Winnipeg where Elizabeth resumed her teaching career. Elizabeth was the first English Protestant teacher to be hired in the St. Boniface School Division. She taught primary classes in Frontenac, Prendergast, Beliveau and was the first Principal of General Vanier School. Elizabeth was an enthusiastic and innovative teacher, greatly loved and respected by her students. As a principal, her staff and students could always count on her support, guidance and leadership. Elizabeths greatest joys were raising her family, being an expectant and doting grandmother, teaching, entertaining friends and being involved in church activities. In later years, she enjoyed travelling to Europe, North Africa, Gibraltar, Hawaii, the southern and western states and throughout Canada. She kept busy with her writing and singing, as well as cooking, baking and crafts. It was sad for the family to watch her active mind and bubbling personality steadily deteriorate. She will be remembered for her loving attitude, kindness, selfless sharing of her talents and time, her strength and devotion to family and most importantly her belief in the Saviour. "There will be a celebration in heaven to welcome you, Mom, and well always miss you." Thanks to the wonderful staff at Meadowood Manor who took such good care of Elizabeth. A special thanks to Pastor Hamm for his visits, prayers and words of encouragement. Donations may be made to the Canadian Alzheimer Society. Please send any of your stories and/or memories of Elizabeth to E. Spencer, 45 Monaco Bay, Winnipeg, MB R2J 1X5 for a compilation of her life. To My Friends I thank you for your kindness, friends. And now my weary pathway wends Along that joyful road to roam That leads me to my blest home. Long have I waited for this day That I to you dear friends, could say, "I am going home to-day." Written by Elizabeth in the 1930s Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 455 LAGIMODIERE BLVD. 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 12, 2000