MOLLY BEATRICE (PAT) HERRING

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MOLLY BEATRICE (PAT) HERRING June 3, 1902 - October 6, 2002 Peacefully, on October 6, 2002 at Lions Personal Care Centre, Pat Herring died at the age of 100 years - a long life, well- lived. Her loving niece, Norma, was by her side. Pat will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by her nieces, Norma (Peter) Drosdowech of Winnipeg, Dorothy (Don) Mathieson of Kingston, ON and Peggy Durant of England; nephew Bob (Sunny) Johnson of Vancouver; and her many great-nieces and great-nephews across Canada, in Bellingham, WA, and in England. Pat was especially close to Norma and Peter and their four daughters, Laura of Miami, FL, Linda of Vancouver, BC, Sandra, and Carol, both of Winnipeg. She delighted in her great-great niece Emily Blue, born May 29, 2001 Pat was born in Salisbury, England on June 3, 2002 and emigrated to Canada in 1908 with her parents, Ernest and Maria (Dennis) Herring, and five sisters, Mabel, Queen, Kay, Marge and Olive. Her eldest sister Dorothy (Doll) remained in England while her brother Bob joined the family in Quebec City. The tragic death of Pats mother at the age of 43 presented great difficulties for the sisters. With great determination they supported one another as they made new lives for themselves. Pat lived for a time in Bellingham, WA with her sister Queen, and in Vancouver where she worked for Boeings during the Second World War. She returned to Winnipeg in 1947 where she lived with her sister Marge until her death in 1993. As a young woman, Pat enjoyed summer work in the dance hall at Winnipeg Beach. Later, Pat worked for many years in Eatons Childrens Wear, and was proud to be promoted to be a section head and a buyer for she had little formal schooling. Her intelligence and wisdom came from lifes experiences. Family was the most important element in Pats life. She cared for her sisters throughout their lives and many family members appreciated her talents in sewing, knitting and crocheting. Even in the last years of her life she continued to knit for "the girls", including a blanket for Emilys layette. Pat enjoyed travelling, especially with her niece, Norma. They made a special trip to Quebec City in 1997 to see the headstone they had placed on the gravesite of Pats mother Maria. Norma is grateful for all the memories she holds from her connection with this gracious, courageous and independent woman who truly was a "survivor". The family wish to thank Dr. David Corner, Pats longtime physician, and everyone at Lions Personal Care Centre, especially the staff of the Fourth Floor. The loving care offered to Pat, especially in the last days of her life, was a great gift to her and her family. Donations in Pats name can be made to Lions Personal Care Recreation Program, 320 Sherbrook, Winnipeg, MB R3B 2W6. Cremation has taken place. Pats ashes will be interred at Fort Garry Cemetery beside her sister Marge. A memorial service and reception will be held at Lions Personal Care Centre on Friday, October 11 at 2:00 p.m.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 09, 2002