ANNE HALLSTEAD (ANNA MUNSON)

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ANNE HALLSTEAD (nee ANNA MUNSON) Peacefully, on Easter Monday, April 16, Anne passed away after 91 fulfilling years of life. Anne was deeply loved and appreciated as friend, wife, mother and grandmother. Her absence will be deeply felt. Anne is survived by her two sons, Doug and Rick; her daughter-in-law Jeannie; her four grandchildren, Sara, Rachel, Scott and David and four great-grandchildren. Anne was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania in 1909. She developed a lifelong bond with her brother Bob Munson and later with his wife Verna. In 1940 Anne married Robert (Bob) Hallstead. They lived for several years in Ithaca, New York while Bob taught at Cornell University. In 1946 Anne, Bob and their two year old son Douglas moved to Winnipeg where Bob took up a position teaching English at United College (now the University of Winnipeg.) Anne rose to the challenge of Winnipeg winters and being apart from her family in the U.S. She thrived in the warm and stimulating atmosphere of their many friends from the college. In 1947 their son Richard was born. Anne was a creative and energetic mother, actively involved in all aspects of her childrens lives. Not long after Ricks birth, Anne was diagnosed with tuberculosis and fought and won a courageous battle with her illness. In 1954 the family moved to 225 Clare Avenue. Nearby lived close and faithful friends from United College, Walter and Margaret Swayze and Ed and Anne Eagle. It was in her home on Clare Avenue that Anne hosted many gatherings marked by laughter, good fellowship, stimulating conversation and delicious home cooked meals. For over 40 years, surrounded by wonderful neighbours, the tall white house on Clare was to hold a central and beloved place in Annes heart. In 1967 Anne and Bob spent a wonderful summer in England touring with their son Doug. That fall, Bob died suddenly from a heart attack and Anne once more proved her courage and resilience. She took up a position in the library at the University of Manitoba. Here her intellectual quickness and love of people led to many life-long friendships. Anne had the pleasure of seeing both of her sons follow in her husbands footsteps as teachers. She became the proud grandmother of two girls and two boys all of whom relished their special times with grandma. At the time of her passing, she had become the beloved great-grandmother of four girls. When maintaining a large home became too much, Anne moved to Villa Cabrini where her sunny ways and plucky manner soon won her many friends. In October of last year, Annes tuberculosis returned. Her last months were spent in the loving care of the staff at St. Boniface hospital. Annes quick mind, sense of humour and care for people endured to the end. A memorial service will be held at St. Aidans Anglican Church, Kingsway and Campbell at 10:30 on April 21. In lieu of flowers, friends wishing to do so may make donations in memory of Anne to the charity of their choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 17, 2001