E. MARJORIE COLPITTS

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E. MARJORIE COLPITTS Cradled in the love of family and friends, Ethel Marjorie Colpitts died peacefully on August 15, 2000 at Victoria General Hospital in Winnipeg. Predeceased by her parents, William H. (Harry) and Martha (Elliot) her brother Cecil; sister-in-law Thelma; and brother Grant. Marge leaves to treasure her memory her sister-in-law Berna. Also remembering Aunt Marge with love and laughter are her ten nieces and nephews and 17 great-nieces and great-nephews, Sydney Ann (Doug Ball, Heather, Adrienne) Judith (Douglas, Gillian) Gordon; Barbara Dick (David, Brian, Cheryl) Jane (Herb Gurski, Caitlin, Paul) Nancy (Bob Elian, Grant, Mark, Emily) Maureen Evans (Stephen) Linda; Helen (Tom Toews, Lauren, Kirsten) George (Francine Michaud, Gabriel). A true west-ender (with Maritime roots), Marge was born on Arlington Street, raised on Lipton Street, and graduated from Daniel MacIntyre Collegiate. She thoroughly enjoyed attending the 75th Anniversary in October, 1998, renewing acquaintances and swapping exaggerations. She subsequently lived in Fort Garry for 39 years, creating lasting friendships with her neighbours on Riley Crescent and Wicklow Street. Marge received her B.A. from the University of Manitoba in 1938, her Diploma in Education in 1939, and her B.Ed. in 1961. During her high school and university years her flair for the dramatic was unleashed. She starred in several Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, most notably as Gianetta in The Gondoliers. She entertained the troops in wartime, with unforgettable renditions of "Walter, Walter, Lead me to the Altar" and other notable works. "Miss Colpitts" taught at Victoria Albert, Isaac Brock, Lord Selkirk and River Heights Schools in Winnipeg No. 1. Over the years she taught math, music, major work, but most of all, kids. Her interest in and care for her students extended well beyond the classroom. Many of her former students became lifelong friends, as did many of her fellow teachers. Marge was a member of Delta Kappa Gamma, and served on the Executive of MTS. She was also an active member of the University Womens Club. In the 60s, Marge joined the Child Guidance Clinic as a School Psychologist. It was here that her empathy and skills with children with challenges were given full rein. She loved her "special" students, and used her musical gifts to communicate with hearing impaired and physically and intellectually challenged youngsters. Marge was a pioneer in the use of Music Therapy in Winnipeg. Marge was a woman of faith. She maintained an active daily prayer life, remembering family and friends in special ways. She called or sent notes to friends and family members just to tell us that we were special in her eyes. Often her contacts came at the time we needed them most. Marges ministry of music to seniors began when her mother was living in a personal care home. She could often be found at the piano, toting a box of Orff instruments or a cassette player, leading singsongs and involving everyone around in a "performance". She continued to visit and make music with friends in hospitals and personal care homes until her own illness intervened. We will remember Marge for her mischief, her wisdom, her faith and her friendship. Cremation has taken place. A Service of Remembrance and Celebration will be held at Young United Church on Monday, August 21 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Eleanor Geib and Rev. Barbara Andrews officiating. At Marges request, her ashes will be interred with those of her brother Grant at a later date. Marge loved flowers and loved friends. In her memory, please give a flower to someone you care about. Donations to Young United Church, 222 Furby St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 2A7 or to a charity of your choice would also be appreciated. Sincere appreciation is extended to the staff of Unit 5 at Victoria General Hospital for their compassionate care of Marge (and her friends and family) during this difficult time, to Rev. Linda Murray of Young United Church and to Chaplain Larry Hirst. Your support helped us to accompany her on her journey. Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 19, 2000