GLADYS ANNA HARRIS (THORKELSON)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

GLADYS ANNA HARRIS (THORKELSON) On Monday, April 21, 2003 after a year long courageous battle with cancer, Gladys passed away at her home in Gimli with her family at her side. Gladys will be sadly missed by her husband Earl; daughters, Louise (Les) Bloomfield and Terry (Grant) Sakiyama. Also left to cherish Grandmas memory are her special grandchildren, Jenna (Dave), Jeff (Erin), Marli and Kevin; and numerous nieces and nephews. Gladys was born on November 14, 1925 in Selkirk, MB, the youngest daughter of Gudmundur and Gudny Thorkelson. Gladys grew up on the family farm (Geirastudum) along the lakeshore of Lake Winnipeg between Gimli and Arnes. Gladys was the youngest of five brothers and four sisters, the oldest brother, Gusti born in 1901. Gladys moved into the town of Gimli to complete her education and work in the Imperial Bank. On June 11, 1949 she married Earl Harris and they lived in St. James until retiring to Gimli in 1984. Gladys was a life member in the St. James Chapter No. 25 of the Order of Eastern Star. Grandma (Nana) was deeply loved by her four grandchildren and they all had a special relationship with her based on love, respect and humour. She was a wonderful confidant and friend who gave of herself to them unselfishly. Gladys was always known for her wonderful sense of humour and as a caregiver of her and Earls large families. She always put the needs of others first whether it be looking after children, sewing or knitting, offering her home or just being someone who listens. Nieces and nephews were always special to her on both sides of the family, as she was always there for them. The family is so grateful to Moms nieces, Dorothy DuGray, Sylvia Szabo and Noel Gray for their love, support and caregiving during Moms illness. It meant so much to Mom to have her family with her. Special thanks to Dr. Pat Harris, nurses, Carol, Elaine and Valerie at Oncology Clinic Concordia Hospital for their compassion and care. A memorial service will be held at Gilbart Funeral Home, First Avenue, Gimli on Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Rainie McKinnon officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 2B7. Gilbart Funeral Chapel, Gimli in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 23, 2003