GILLIAN MARY BABYNEC

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GILLIAN MARY BABYNEC Peacefully, in the arms of her family, Gillian passed away at St. Boniface General Hospital on Friday, October 20, 2000. Gillian was predeceased by her father, The Rev. Noel Benham, and her mother Mary. She is survived by husband Ernie and beloved daughters, Anastasia and Alexandra; sister Judith Bach; parents-in-law, Bernie and Helen Babynec; brother-in-law Richard Babynec, and a large extended family in New Zealand. During a too brief fight with cancer, Gillian displayed courage, grace and a sense of humour that gave strength to all those around her. Gillian was born on February 21, 1947 in Dunedin, New Zealand. She lived in various places according to her fathers postings as vicar. This must have instilled a love of travel that never left her. After finishing school she set out to travel with friends and lived in Australia, South Africa and Great Britain. It was while in London that she met her husband Ernie. She was married in Winnipeg and would have celebrated her 30th anniversary on January 30, 2001. Trained as an accountant, Gillian spent the majority of her working life in the automotive business in Winnipeg where she was widely known and respected by all who worked with her. At her passing she was employed as Secretary-Treasurer of Vickar Community Chev-Olds. Gillian loved to travel, to garden and to read. She was a mentor to many and loved to help others. Gillian was a member of the Auxiliary Board of St. Boniface Hospital, where her dedication and effort as a key member of a team, helped St. Boniface Hospital Gift Shop become a great success in raising money for various projects at the hospital. The family would like to express their most profound thanks to Carol Taylor (Fraser) of Sydney, Australia, Gillians lifelong friend for coming to her side and for the love, care and compassion she provided Gillian. The family would also like to express their gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and nurses aides of the fifth floor and palliative care wards at St. Boniface Hospital for all their help and care. According to Gillians wishes cremation has taken place. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Gillians name to St. Boniface General Hospital, 409 Tache St., Winnipeg, MB R2H 2A6. The family extends an invitation to all who knew Gillian to join them in a memorial celebration of Gillians life at 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Norwood Hotel, 112 Marion St., Winnipeg, MB on Sunday, October 29.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 24, 2000