CHRISTINE FINGAS (SWAINSON)

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CHRISTINE FINGAS (SWAINSON) Christine Fingas of Russell, MB passed away March 21, 2003, the first day of spring, at the Russell and District Hospital at the age of 72 years. Christine was born in Baldur, MB on June 21, 1930 - the first day of summer to Ari and Bjorg Swainson. Chris loved life, her family and her friends. Registered nursing was her chosen profession and her love. She graduated from the Winnipeg General Hospital in 1951. She nursed in Winnipeg, Dauphin, Roblin and Russell for 40 plus years. Her patients became like family. Chris lived life to the fullest. Her faith was her rock. While raising a family and nursing, she gratefully gave her time to 4-H, Evangelical Lutheran Women, Hospital Auxiliary, cancer support and many others. She gave her time freely and gathered many friends along the way with her quiet and unassuming personality. An Icelandic heritage made her proud. Coffee and viena tarta was special at Chris - she made it the Icelandic way! Never idle, knitting was a passion and many are the proud owners of her craft. Everything was for her family. The grandchildren brought a sparkle to her life. Grandma was always willing to play cards, read or visit. Pride and joy was seeing her grandchildren excel in music, sports, art and school. She was predeceased by Ari and Bjorg Swainson; brother Maurice and Gabie Swainson; sister Cathy Desrochers and step-brother Ronnie Swainson. Surviving are her husband Harold; son Ken Fingas, Inglis; daughters, Darlene (Doug) Armstrong, Swift Current, Cathy (Kelly) McLean, Birch Hills; brother Dave (Elaine) Swainson, Marmora, ON; grandchildren, Cole and Jill Armstrong, Kaitlyn, Braden and Jennifer McLean. Also surviving are Leo Desrochers, Winnipeg, Alwyn and Ellie Fingas, Dora Fingas, Alice and Barry Coulter, Betty and Harry Greening, Irene and Gordon Fingas, as well as many nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank the dedicated staff of the cancer clinic in Winnipeg. Dr. Bowman, nurse Pat, Dr. Daenick, nurse Tracey. Dr. Moolman of the Russell and District Hospital for your continuing care and concern. To Colleen (her angel nurse) for knowing what to do at the right time. To all the nursing and hospital staff, your care was appreciated. To Marg Fraser and the home care staff, for being friends as well as professionals. Amy Kostiuk and the Palliative Care volunteers, thank you for what you do. Your kindness and empathy made a huge impact in Moms life and our lives as well. The funeral service was held March 25 from the Bethany Lutheran Church, Inglis, MB with Pastor Michael Diegel officiating. Interment followed in Bethany South Cemetery. Pallbearers were Kerry Dunn, Holly Sloboda, Harold Kopetsky, Terry Jackson, Arthur Fingas and Betty Beischer. Honorary Pallbearers were Glenna Miller, Mary Jackson, Joyce Fingas, Olga Worneski, Louise Miller, Mabel Magnowski, Amy Kostiuk, Barb Dow, Myrna Russell, Dianne Ciprick, Marg McNeil and Freda Robin. If friends so desire donations may be made to the Russell and District Palliative Care Service or to a charity of choice. Braendle-Bruce Funeral Service of Russell, MB in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 26, 2003