ETHEL HARDS

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ETHEL HARDS Ethel Maria Hards, born in Winnipeg on February 15, 1918 to Samuel and Alma Harju, died at St. Boniface Hospital on Thursday, October 14, 2004. Ethel was predeceased by her parents, her sister Dagny, her beloved husband George, and her niece Janet. She is survived by her son Bob and daughter-in-law Ann, her sister Sylvia and family, her cousins Lynn and Fred and their families, her in-laws the Davies family and other extended family. She will also be missed by many friends and neighbours. After the early death of her mother, Ethel grew up with her grandparents in the Finnish communities of New Finland, Saskatchewan and Elma, Manitoba until moving back to Winnipeg. Ethel was gifted academically but family circumstances dictated that she would start her working career at a young age. She enjoyed working at Neimans Furs, and the T Eaton Company. In 1950, she married the love of her life, George, with whom she shared 48 wonderful years. Together they provided a great home for their son Bob, of whom they were always so proud. Ethel placed great importance on family and friends. She had a tremendous number of friends of a variety of ages and backgrounds, a testament to the type of person she was. Children were especially important to her and the feeling was mutual. Her generosity, her ability to remain positive, and her persistence in the face of challenges (SISU), have served as a role model and inspiration to many. Ethels family extends appreciation to all of the caring neighbours and friends who provided companionship and support over the past several years, including all those rides to the Centre for mall therapy. We are also grateful to Dr. Maila Gabriel, Tracy Mills and Home Care colleagues, and staff of the Family Medicine ward at St. Boniface Hospital for their compassionate care. A celebration of Ethels life will be held Monday, October 18 at 11:00 a.m. at Neil Bardal Inc. 984 Portage Avenue (entrance on Aubrey Street). Flowers are gratefully declined. Should friends so desire, please send donations to the charity of their choice. Lord, when thou seest that my work is done, Let me not linger on with failing powers, As down the weary hours; A workless worker in a world of work; But, with a word, just bid me home, And I will come right gladly, Yes, right gladly will I come. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 16, 2004