GAIL ANN HEBERT

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GAIL ANN HEBERT The fabric of Gail Ann Hebert's life was a rich tapestry woven with multi-coloured threads that reflected the many paths along which she travelled and the people she encountered along the way. Gail Ann was a woman of integrity, an intelligent, strong, creative woman who embraced life with a quiet passion. She gave of herself freely, nurturing her relationships with family and friends with an unparalleled commitment and an energy that emanated from deep within her soul. Gail Ann offered encouragement to others in their various endeavours and celebrated their accomplishments with a glad heart. She possessed the unique capacity to find wonder in the ordinary and the enviable ability to create calm in the midst of chaos. Gail Ann loved a challenge and took pride in everything she undertook. It did not matter whether it was trying out a new recipe on unsuspecting friends, completing her degree at the University of Winnipeg at age 47, kayaking on Lake Superior, or supervising the building of a house in St. Lucia, she embarked on every venture with zest and enthusiasm. Gail Ann was a compassionate, intensely spiritual woman who cared about the environment, delighted in the beauty of nature, and who derived immense satisfaction from creating a picturesque oasis in her yard at Ceann Scribe. Over the years Gail Ann assumed a myriad of roles: she was a faithful wife, confidante and companion to Adrian, working tirelessly by his side both in their professional as well as in their personal life. Gail Ann was a dedicated mother (and mother-in-law), who wanted nothing but the best for her children and who didn't hesitate to dispense advice when she thought it necessary. She was a fun-loving grandmother who convinced her young granddaughters that she was truly royalty...they have never considered her anything less! Gail Ann was a considerate daughter, a loving sister, a warm-hearted aunt who was thrilled to give the 'toast-to-the-bride' at her niece's wedding, and she was an openhearted and giving stepmother. Gail Ann was a principled, empathetic therapist who served her clients with probity, and who was highly regarded by her colleagues in the counselling field. And, Gail Ann was a loyal and steadfast friend who listened with her heart, who enjoyed lively debate, who laughed freely, who reached out to others without hesitation and who asked for little in return. She was respected not only for who she was but also for how she chose to 'be' in the world. It was with pragmatism and great dignity that Gail Ann dealt with the reality of the cancer that betrayed, and eventually ravaged her body. Her resolve to 'Live' through her dying was an inspiration to all who knew her. Since her return to Winnipeg two weeks ago, Gail Ann's family and friends kept constant vigil at her bedside, but today, it is with profound sorrow that we announce that Gail Ann Hebert (Adrian's beloved Doll ) died at St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg, on Sunday, 12 June 2005. Memories of their life together will forever be cherished by her devoted husband, Adrian Hynes. It was Adrian's unwavering support and abiding love that sustained Gail Ann until the moment of her death. She will be missed greatly by her children, Jennifer (Rod) and Sean (Kim) whose lives she held close at all times; by her grandchildren, Brittany, Jessica, Emily, Kaitlyn and Gabrielle, all of whom brought such joy into her life and all of whom she loved without condition; by her step-daughter, Rebecca (Sarah) whose relationship with Gail Ann was a special gift; by her dearest sister, Joan; by her mother, Nettie Hebert, by her friends and by members of her extended family. Gail Ann was a grace-filled woman whose step, although soft upon this earth, left an indelible imprint; she lived fully, loved deeply and will be remembered with affection and tenderness. Our last wish, Gail Ann, is that you pay no heed to Dylan Thomas, and ...go gentle into that good night . There will be a gathering to celebrate Gail Ann's life at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 15 June 2005 at Glen Eden Funeral Home, 4477 Main St., Winnipeg. The family asks that, if people wish to honour Gail Ann, they make a donation in her name to a charity of their choice. Arrangements entrusted to: GLEN EDEN FUNERAL HOME 4477 MAIN STREET 338-7111 Family and Friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolences at www.gleneden-mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 14, 2005