FLORENCE GUDRUN STEPHANSON

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FLORENCE GUDRUN STEPHANSON Just two months after her 90th birthday, Florence / Mom died peacefully at Victoria General Hospital in Winnipeg on May 31, 2003. Left to cherish wonderful memories are her son Garry (Judy) grandchildren, Dan (Cyndy) and Leif (Wendy) great-grandchildren, Julianna and Ethan; sisters, Irene and Eleanore; brother Brian; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Stephan; daughter Susan; brother Alfred; and sisters, Anna, Aurora and Maria. There will be no formal service. Florences request (her order!) was, "no ceremony or speeches, just a gathering of family and friends for a cup of coffee for old times sake.". Her desire was indeed fulfilled, as 50 of her family and friends celebrated her amazing life with her, on her 90th birthday, April 6, while those who could not attend sent their love and wishes. Florence often expounded on the pleasures of her holidays in Calgary with her sisters, Aurora and Maria, visiting her niece Rae ("like another sister") and all the western family, especially the many joyous Christmases and the two "last hurrah" southern cruises. She would surely like to say a special thank you to her nephew Art and his wife Marg and to Judys brother Barclay, for the happy times shared and their devoted attention over many years. She also appreciated the gentle care provided at Thorvaldson Care Centre and at the Vic. Florence was beloved by her large extended family and by the many friends whose lives she touched. She was a perpetual optimist, always seeing the glass half-full, not half-empty, and treated every day as an adventure. She was elegant yet fun-loving, compassionate yet tough. She will be long remembered for her passion for life and her personal strength through many adversities. Florence leaves us with her favourite blessing: May your path be strewn with flowers Of memories, friends and happy hours May blessings come from heaven above To fill your life with peace and love. God bless you all. Amen. LEATHERDALE GARDINER Funeral Chapel - St. James- 949-4872

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 03, 2003