WINONA IRENE VAN HAUTE

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WINONA IRENE VAN HAUTE It is with great sadness that the family of Winona Irene Van Haute announces her passing on January 7, 2004 at the age of 81. Winona was predeceased by her husband Archie on January 29, 1998. Winona is survived by her children, Irene and Roger, Leon and Phyllis, Ben, Barbara, Frank and Camilla, Richard, Robin and Kevin. Also by her grandchildren, Vicki and Tyrone, Darren and Mary, Tina and Tim, Angela and Derrick, Ted and Monika, Stephanie, Gillian, Alexis, Shane, Kristin, Brett and Rachel; as well as great-grandchildren, Tyler, Cole, Brittany, Jake, Abbie, Marlee, Megan, Kaitlin, Chaz, Sam, and Alex. Winona left this world in the same manner that she entered it, as a fighter. Arriving at 2 pounds, she survived the elements wrapped in swaddling in a box on the wood stove door. Her childhood took her through the Great Depression, a meager lifestyle and much hardship. In spite of her scant beginnings, she found a quality which she valued and passed on to all of her children, a love of both life and laughter. In 1941, she married Archie, the love of her life, and the partner who would never leave her. Together they created a life and a family that they were both committed to and exceedingly proud of. While many create a family that extends to their children and grandchildren, Mum was the driving force behind giving a sense of family to hundreds of children beyond her own. Generations of children in Rosser and Stony Mountain knew "Noni" as the one who always had an open door, a warm smile and good things to eat. Aside from local children, hundreds of foster children over a 30 year period were touched and influenced by Mum. To each of these children she gave acceptance and hope. Each of them in their own way will always remember and love "Noni". To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Grandma will always be remembered as the best card player ever. She will also be remembered for her unconditional love and non-judgmental guidance. To her children, she was the rock who held us all together when we were most challenged. Her love, acceptance and strength will never be forgotten, but always cherished. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 10 at 2:30 p.m. at the MacKenzie Funeral Chapel, Stonewall. Interment will follow at Christ Church Cemetery, Stony Mountain. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. MacKenzie Funeral Home, Stonewall in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 09, 2004