WANDA JEAN MARTIN

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WANDA JEAN MARTIN Wanda Jean Martin was born in her parents house on Magnus Avenue in 1919. She grew up in the north end and near the end of the Second World War, married the love of her life. Together she and Stan built a comfortable life on Burrows Avenue, focused on family, church and community activities with friends. On May 25, 2004, the cancer Wanda battled for three years finally claimed her. She was the last of her family, predeceased by her parents; sister Eugenia (Tony) and brothers, Edward and Leonard (Anna). She passed away very peacefully in the comfort of Grace Hospice with her husband Stan at her side. Wanda and Stan had nearly 60 years of married life together. Stan was her best friend, constant companion and in the last years, her most important caregiver. Wanda was a devoted wife and mother who left a legacy in her children and their children, Stan and Susan of London; Ray and Virginia of Calgary; grandchildren, Jason (Susan), Roxanne, Vincent and Rebecca; great-grandchild Ellie; and her late sisters children, Tom, Louise (Faiz), Rick, Teresa (John), James and Maryanne (Sean). Wanda was never someone to sit on the sidelines or keep opinions to herself. She was willing to help or lead where she felt she was needed. She was a devoted member of St. John Cantius Church. She participated in the scouting movement as a youth and contributed to its growth by her many years as Akela of the 116th Pack Cubs and later, District Commissioner. She loved working with children and her years as a teachers aid gave her great satisfaction. She held executive offices in both the Canadian Polish Athletic Club and the Fraternal Aid Society of St. John Cantius. Both organizations awarded her honorary life memberships in recognition for her decades of contribution. Wandas grandchildren were her greatest treasures. She kept close ties with her family despite the miles that separated them. She and Stan made countless trips over the years to celebrate special occasions with their grandchildren. Wanda never forgot a birthday or the special things that were important to her children and grandchildren. She helped build the hopes and dreams that made each one feel special. Wanda loved to laugh, dance and party. Even while in treatment, she continued to organize bus trips for her seniors clubs. Her sense of humour stayed with her to the end. Her home and especially her kitchen was her domain. Wanda was happiest in the organized chaos of cooking a special meal or cleaning up after a holiday feast for 20. It was a point of great pride that no one left her home hungry. Wandas strength of character showed in the way she dealt with her illness. There was no question in her mind that every treatment was going to beat the cancer. She accepted her challenge without complaint and without wanting to be a burden on anyone. She accepted support but would not tolerate pity. She was a model of positive attitude and courage. Wanda and Stan were supported in the past three years by dozens of workers in the health care system. Each of her caregivers at CancerCare, Home Care, Womens Hospital and finally at Grace Hospice went far beyond expectations. Heartfelt thanks to each of these very dedicated and talented people! On Saturday, May 29 at 11:00 a.m., there will be a Mass at St. John Cantius Church, 846 Burrows Ave. Friends are invited to visit the family at the church one half hour before mass and stay afterwards. In lieu of flowers, donations to CancerCare Manitoba or Grace Hospice would be appreciated. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 28, 2004