ROBERTA MAY COOK

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ROBERTA MAY COOK Passed away peacefully with her family at her side at Seven Regions Health Centre, Gladstone, on February 12, 2005, Roberta Cook, age of 87 years. Bert was born October 31, 1917, at the farm home of her parents, John and Jennie Wilson, 10 miles north of Gladstone in the Deseronto District. Born on Halloween, she often teased that she was a Halloween Witch. She received her education at Deseronto and Gladstone schools. After completing school, Roberta went on to work at Hembroff's General Store for 10 years, often assuming responsibility of the store's daily operations. She fondly remembered the busy Saturday nights when stores were open until midnight - a time for friends and neighbours to socialize. In 1945, she married Howard Cook of the Pembroke District. They had two daughters, Wilda and Wanda. For several years, Roberta worked as a part-time sales clerk at the Smart Shop, owned by Les and Elinor Heiman, and then with daughter Wanda at Wandeen's Smart Shop; however, farming with Howard's brothers was their livelihood until 1985, when they retired to their home on Hyde Park Crescent in Gladstone. Due to Howard's failing health, they moved to 110 Legion Place in 1995. Howard passed away in May 2001, and Bert remained independent in her suite until she was hospitalized a week before her passing. Throughout her life, Bert was always involved in the community. She was a Charter and Life member of the Order of the Royal Purple No. 119 Lodge, a member of the Gladstone Legion Ladies Auxiliary, and Secretary-Treasurer for the Pembroke School Board for 20 years. She was involved in 4-H as a leader for many years, and other favourite pastimes included curling, baking, sewing, square dancing and chording on the piano for family sing songs and jam sessions. In later years, she was an active member of Beyond Third Crossing and Gladstone Then and Now History Book Committees. First and foremost in her life was her family. Their needs and interests were her first priority, and she was always there to offer her love, support and encouragement. Predeceased by her husband, parents, two brothers and one sister, she was the last surviving member of the family of John and Jennie Wilson. Left to mourn her passing are daughters, Wilda (John) Park and Wanda (Dean) Toth; five grandchildren, Scott, Brynae, Kristy, Jenna and Jesse; two great-grandchildren, McCullough and Makenzie; special longtime friend of 62 years, Madge Otto; as well as other friends and relatives. Funeral service was held Wednesday, February 16 at 11:00 a.m. in the Gladstone United Church with Rev. Bob Hunter officiating. Sherry Hanna presided at the organ, Donna Cymbalist presided at the piano, and the United Church Choir was in attendance. A special vocal selection How Great Thou Art was sung by Marland Stewart and Debbie S. Bjarnarson. Reflections of Wilda and Wanda were given by Wilda Park. Attending in their respective groups and giving tributes were members of the Royal Purple Lodge No. 119 and the Legion Ladies Auxiliary. A guard of honour was formed by the Royal Purple. Interment followed at the Gladstone Cemetery. Ushers were Dick Graham and Doug McBride. Pallbearers were Warren Kunzelman, Ron Gabor, Gordon Cogar, Jamie Walker, Tom Otto and Chris Chandler. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to Seven Regions Palliative Care, Box 374, Gladstone, MB R0J 0T0, or to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, 1000 - 790 Bay St., Box 20403, Stn. BRM B, Toronto, ON M7Y 3R1. Clarke's Funeral Home, Gladstone in care of arrangements. Messages of condolence may be sent to bwclarke@mts.net

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 19, 2005