MARTHA BALNESS (MIDDLESTEAD)

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MARTHA BALNESS (nee MIDDLESTEAD) May 27, 1935 - December 21, 2002 Martha was predeceased by her father Gottfried (Fred) her mother Johanna; sister Edna Fuerst; and granddaughters, Amanda Jolene and Shanna Lynn. She is sadly missed and lovingly remembered by James, her husband of 46 years; her son Craig (Audrey), Meagan, Bethany and Kiernan; her daughter Rebecca (Alan) Archer, Rita, Jordan and Jessica; and her brothers and sisters, Walter (Irene), Art (Claire), Myrtle Hladun, Frieda (Harry) Klapprat, George (Sharon) and Richard (Bernice) as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Martha was born at the family homestead west of Grahamdale, MB. At an early age she acquired the pet name Suzi which was used by her immediate family and intimate friends for the rest of her life. She lived and worked on the family farm until June 30, 1956 when she married James. Her children were born while she was with her husband who was teaching in rural areas. During those years her love of learning led her to complete grades nine and ten through correspondence courses. Through to her last days she would surprise her children and grandchildren with her wide field of knowledge. One of her greatest pleasures was gathering with her close-knit family to enjoy evenings of singing and playing country and bluegrass music. She was an avid bingo player through the years with her mother, sisters, daughter and granddaughter until her sight failed. Over the years she enjoyed trips to Nashville, Branson, Reno, Las Vegas and many casinos in the U.S.A. and Canada. Not only was she a loving wife and mother, but also an active involved grandmother who cared for her grandchildren throughout their formative years allowing her son and daughter to follow their own careers. Martha fell ill on July 17, 2002. She had a strength and will to live that few people possess. Despite her many health problems that were complicated by Lupus that first appeared at the time of her childrens births. Her determination, spirit, and love of life never gave up until her body failed her. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, December 27, at Glen Lawn Funeral Home, 455 Lagimodiere Blvd. (south of the Royal Canadian Mint). Interment will follow at Glen Lawn Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Mssrs, Jordan Archer, Jason Balness, Duane Klapprat, Blake Middlestead, Jonathon Middlestead, and Shaun Fuerst. Honorary pallbearers will be Mssrs, Randy Hladun, Garth Middlestead, Ward Middlestead, Jeff Balness, Jared Balness, Robbie Burchuk. A gathering of family and friends will take place in the Glen Lawn Reception Centre. We thank all family members who were so helpful and faithful in supporting us during the months she fought so valiantly. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of ones choice. Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN LAWN FUNERAL HOME 455 LAGIMODIERE BLVD. 982-7550

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 16, 2002