ISOBEL FLORENCE (CHAMBERS) KOLESAR -

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ISOBEL FLORENCE (CHAMBERS) KOLESAR 1923 - 2003 On Wednesday, April 9, 2003 our wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully with family at her side after a determined struggle with leukemia. Born near Durban, MB on January 2, 1923 to Frederick and Marjorie Chambers, she grew up in the area of Swan River, MB. Later she attended Manitoba Normal School and taught at several elementary schools in western Manitoba. After her marriage to Fred they were posted at several Air Force bases throughout Canada. They then chose to farm and raise their family in the Minnedosa area where Isobel was very active in the community. Her involvement included 4-H, Agricultural Society, Horticultural Society, and Art Club. Isobel was well known throughout the area for judging at fairs. When she and Fred retired to Portage la Prairie she enjoyed growing flowers and vegetables in their large garden, painting and various other crafts. Recently she and Fred moved to Winnipeg to be nearer their family. Mom set a marvellous example of strength and serenity for us. She was always a gentle woman who remained upbeat through all of lifes ups and downs. She was consistently uncomplaining and used her quiet strength and brave determination to overcome any hardships that came her way, especially in the last while. She was never one to be idle, whether painting a picture, crocheting an afghan, playing the piano, repotting an African violet, baking a cake, or making a ceramic vase. One of her greatest joys was passing on her skills to her grand-children. She took great interest in their activities and enjoyed playing with them. Each time she moved, she quickly made friends with her new neighbours, became involved in the community, and gave generously of herself. May a portion of her humour, wisdom, and love of life live on in those whose lives she has touched. Isobel is survived by Fred, her husband of almost 53 years, son Ken (Priscilla and Krystyna), daughter Noreen (Wayne Loeppky, Scott and Travis), son Robert (Pat Butts, Ben, Rebecca and Sara), and son Rick (Pam Bidewell, Alexander, Robyn and Reid). She is also survived by her brother George (Gloria) Chambers, sister Evelyn (Allan) McKee, brother-in-law Charlie Irvine as well as sisters-in-law Nellie (Ken) McLeod, Velma (George) Pavlin, and Alice (Bill) Moger and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Florence Irvine and infant sister Elizabeth. A graveside service will be held on Monday, April 14 at 2:00 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery in Neepawa, with reception to follow at the Neepawa United Church C.E.C. Donations in her name for leukemia research can be sent to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, Room 1160, 675 McDermot Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 12, 2003