Obituaries

ERMA (HATTIE/SKINNER) NEWELL It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Erma, beloved wife of the late George Newell, mother, grandmother and treasured friend, on Thursday, May 17, 2012, at the age of 94 years. Erma will remembered and cherished by her daughter Lorraine and husband Ken; son Rick and wife Lesley and granddaughter Kendall who was the light of her life; the many friends that Mom had the privilege of meeting over the years, here in Winnipeg, in Tucson in retirement with our dad and Mesa, Arizona, and since 1990, at Silver Harbour, Arnes, MB; Mom referred to them fondly as her lake family and friends. She was predeceased by her mother, Christie Ann Skinner in 1978, and the love of her life, best friend and soul mate, her loving husband, George in July 1984. Mom was born on August 10, 1917, and spent her entire life in Winnipeg. On September 12, 1941, Mom and Dad were married and made their home in Fort Rouge. Erma was an active member of Harrow United Church for many, many years, was on the Executive of the United Church Women’s group (U.C.W.), taught Sunday School and sung in the Church Choir. She was a life member of the Order of the Royal Purple for 62 years, a mountain trail hiker and avid line dancer in the winter months in Arizona and since 2001 for 10 years at Lions Place. She always had Happy Feet!! Our mom was a woman who brought great joy to those who were fortunate enough to have known her along life’s journey. A woman of profound inner strength, who lived life to the fullest with integrity, humour, dignity, compassion and a deep and abiding faith. There was a constant reaffirmation that sometimes life throws you some curves, you ask yourself why, then you pick yourself up and carry on with the knowledge that tomorrow is going to be a better day. Mom always had a smile on her face, always a warm greeting for everyone and lots and lots of hugs. Yes, indeed, our mom was definitely a Hugger. A Celebration of Erma’s Life will take place on Saturday, June 16, 2012m at 2:00 p.m. in the Arnes Community Hall, Arnes, Manitoba. The family would like to thank the Staff at Beacon Hill Lodge, Betty, Linda, Joel, Kerron, Courtney, Catherine, Magdelana, Nella, Rowena and everyone else who showed such love and compassion towards our mom and ensured her comfort not only since February but also at the end of her journey. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Erma’s memory can be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society or the charity of your choice. TO MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS I go from you gently for it is my time To take the next step In this journey of mine; Don’t grieve for me long I’ve not left you alone For I will be with you In the love that we’ve known, That love is forever And some day when it’s time You’ll join me again On this journey of mine Anonymous   As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on May 19, 2012