Obituaries

GAIL ANN CAMPBELL

(PRENDERGAST)

Sadly, we announce the death of Gail Campbell on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, shortly after her 86th birthday.

Predeceased by her parents, Duncan and Jean (Boardman) Campbell, and recently her younger brother, Bruce. Gail was blessed by visits from all surviving siblings Jim, Peter (Kate) and Blair (Georgie Lee) in her final days.

As a child, Gail’s family followed her father’s career through many postings including: Nelson, BC; Saskatoon, SK; and Southern Ontario (Hamilton/St. Catharines), before returning to Winnipeg to complete high school (Kelvin Collegiate). In 1953, Gail graduated from University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Home Economics, interning as a Dietitian at Toronto General Hospital, further practicing in Minneapolis and Saskatoon, before returning to Winnipeg’s Hospital for Sick Children. In 1958, she married Leo Prendergast, with whom she raised two sons, Jim (Christine Kraemer), and Fred (Liz Lount), who eventually gave her four devoted grandchildren (Chris, Beth, Mary and Amelia). After short stays in Edmonton and Ottawa, the family settled in Toronto in 1966, where, once her boys were established in school, she resumed her career at the Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care. Gail earned a certificate in Gerontology at the University of Toronto and concluded her career as a consultant for nutritional services for Diversicare’s Nursing Homes, retiring and returning to Winnipeg in 1990.

Gail rebuilt her network from high school and university days when she returned to Winnipeg, supporting her sorority (Zeta Tau Alpha), the University Women’s Club (as treasurer for many years), taking turns hosting her friends in the “No-Bridge Bridge Club”, and spending summers at the Boardman family cottage on Fox Lake (Wade, ON). The way mom-maintained contact with friends and family across Canada spoke to her determination and faithfulness. She had a kind word for almost everyone, and an uncanny memory for names and faces. Best remembered is her love of all God’s creatures, especially her beloved dogs, and she didn’t rest until care was confirmed for her latest companion, Trixie. Gail cherished her time at the lake, but off season gave her a chance meet the neighbourhood dog community and watch her curling.

Although a series of strokes, and the discovery of cancer, robbed her of her independence, she warmly welcomed all the friends and family who came to say their farewells. Her days in the Lake of the Woods District Hospital, St. Boniface CCU, Misericordia’s Transitional Care Unit, and the Hospice at Grace Hospital, were filled with far more laughter than tears, as she retained her sharp memory, and sense of dignity. Gail complimented all her caregivers on their efforts, especially on the meals provided!

We thank all that cared for Gail over the last two months, especially the many friends and family that filled her last days with love and laughter. Special thanks to Gail’s devoted cousin, Allie Boardman, who visited daily since this journey started.

Faith alone tells us what happens as we pass. We know Gail lived a righteous and loving life and believe she will be watching us as we move on. No season was more important to Gail than cottage season, watch for details of a Memorial Service in the spring (May ’20).

Condolences may be sent to www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com