MARJORIE GUNSON

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MARJORIE GUNSON On January 18, 2005 at the age of 73 years, Marge left us, confident in the life hereafter and that she would rejoin the loved ones who had gone before her. Marge is the mother of Allister (Joan) and Drew (Sharon), and the proud grandmother of Andrew, Deanna, Evan, David, Kaitlin and Marley. She was predeceased by her husband Mel in 1972, and is survived by her sisters, Ruth and Geraldine and by many nieces and nephews in the Lawson and Gunson families. Marge was born in Swan River, MB in 1931. As the daughter of a CNR Station Agent she moved around, living in Canora, Fort Frances and Neepawa. Marge earned her B.A. at United College and later a B.Ed. from the University of Manitoba. Following the example of her father, who was a lay preacher, Marge studied Theology at United College. She left just short of graduation in order to marry Mel, as women at that time were required to choose between marriage and ordination. But she would reminisce fondly of her youthful experiences as a student minister in Onanole, Little Brittany and Birch River. A faithful and active member of the United Church, Marge served as a Sunday School teacher and Superintendent, a choir leader and an active congregational member. Marge was a dedicated school teacher, having taught in Beausejour and at Queen Elizabeth and Nelson McIntyre Schools in Norwood. She was known to be strict and thorough, but behind that stern facade was a caring woman who invested much effort and care in her students. Many times in later years, Marge would meet former students who related how in some way she had positively impacted their lives. Marge's life was synonymous with hard work. Whether in the raising of her family, her lesson plans for school or the upkeep of her house and yard, everything that Marge did was with careful preparation, planning and execution. She loved the beauty in nature and the intellectual stimulation of reading and discussion. In her younger years Marge was an accomplished pianist and singer. In later years she enjoyed her gardening, reading, crossword puzzles, opera, Inuit art and the company of her friends. Marge's passing has left a big hole in our lives and in our hearts. She delighted in joining her family at birthdays, Sunday dinners and other events, and in watching her grandchildren at their hockey and soccer games. We are thankful for her unswerving love and support for her family. It was Marge's wish that no ceremony be held on her death. Anyone wishing to do so is invited to make a contribution in Marge's memory to the Marge and Mel Gunson Memorial Award at the University of Manitoba.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 21, 2005