MARCELLA MOBBERLEY (BUCKHAM)

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MARCELLA MOBBERLEY (nee BUCKHAM) Peacefully, on December 21, 2004, Marcella slipped her ties to earth and now dances the skies on laughter-riven butterfly wings of fond memories , having been loved and cherished by all whose lives she created, touched or helped. Born in Minneapolis, USA, August 18, 1909, she was the fifth consecutive Marcella spanning generations of distinguished American Family lines rooted in pioneer Boston Catholic and Puritan Mayflower values. Surviving daughter Janet Marcella Lynn Tucker is the sixth. Educated at Winnipeg's St. Mary's Academy and Conservatory of Music, the vivacious, talented, intelligent and resilient woman flourished artistically and creatively throughout her long life. An accomplished musician and endearing leader, Mom's musical career and eclectic repertoire ranged from organist at Winnipeg's St. Mary's Cathedral, to University of Manitoba faculty pianist, to countless weddings, socials and events. She spent many years Entertainment Director/Player for Winnipeg Seniors' Residences, culminating as a much appreciated pianist and organist in her beloved Canterbury residence, her home in Edmonton. Her extensive community service interests included: Wartime Victory Garden development, the Waugh Shield Children's Garden competitions, directing several major Heritage development programs and Chairing the St. James Historical Society. She edited many newsletters, championed many causes and balanced a busy family life with an inveterate travel habit while savouring the family's summer home at Winnetka Lake, ON. Mom made ever so many friendships wherever she was, enhanced by her sheer love of life, which was so infectious and inspiring. Marcella first became a mother at age 28 of eldest son Terry, (grandson Ryan), closely followed by son Dale, deceased, (wife Lyla), 10 years later by son Pat (wife Carol) followed remarkably at age 44 by daughter Janet (husband George Tucker and first grandchildren, twins, Dale and Tyler and two great-granddaughters). Mom is also survived by younger sister Dora Tissot of Winnipeg and several nieces and nephews, most notably Bill Buckham (wife Keatha) and their extended family and friends in Edmonton. Predeceased by Herb (1988), her husband of 52 years, son Dale, (1988), older brother Joe and many dear friends. The family is grateful and humbled by all the goodwill, friendship and caring assistance extended to Mom by the residents, staff and management of Canterbury Manor and Court, as well as the host of medical and health-care practitioners led by Dr. R. B. Whittaker. All are invited to celebrate Marcella's rich and full life at a memorial service in the Canterbury Court Chapel, 8403 - 142nd St., Edmonton at 2:15 p.m., on Thursday, December 23. Monseigneur D.G. MacDonald officiating. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, memoriam donations may be made to The Central Speech and Hearing Clinic headquartered in Winnipeg or the Canterbury Foundation, Edmonton.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 23, 2004