Obituaries

GENEVIEVE GIRDEN

December 10, 2011

GENEVIEVE MARGRET GIRDEN January 2, 1926 – December 10, 2011 It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mom, Genevieve Girden, yet rejoice in a life well lived. Left to forever cherish Mom’s memory are her children, son Allan (Judy) and grandson James; son Bud; daughter Judy (Victor) and grandchildren Ryan and Hayley; son Todd and grandchildren Tasia and Charlie; two brothers; six sister-in-laws; numerous nieces; nephews; as well as by her adopted son, Peter van Hoek, (Betty) and their children, Christian and Michele. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Robert E. Girden; parents; eight brothers; two sister-in-laws; a niece and a nephew. Mom was born in Lavoy, AB, and grew up on the family farm. Being the only girl with ten brothers, she was strong and spirited, never backed down and was always able to take care of herself. She was active in C.G.I.T. (Canadian Girls in Training), but Mom said it stood for Craziest Girls in Town. She was involved with Highland Dancing and was very proud of the fact that the little town girls beat the city girls at a dance competition in Edmonton. In 1944, Mom joined the Navy and served as a WREN. It was during this time that she met our dad. They were married on April 24, 1948. Mom worked at various jobs, finally at the Convalescent Home as a dietary aide. It was there she thrived and loved tending to the residents. She became great friends with Mary, Heddy, and Marcella and always looked forward to going out with the girls. It is hard to put into words the kind of lady our mom was. She was generous, loyal, sincere, and loving. She loved to get dressed up in bright colours and dangling earrings and was known as the gypsy from a young age. Mom was known as gramma, gramsy, salt and pepper gramma and Baba to her grandkids. She loved them so much and exerted her right to spoil them every chance she got. Although we have lost our guiding light and best friend, we take comfort in knowing she is at peace and reunited with loved ones in heaven. In compliance with Mom’s wishes there will be no Funeral Service. The family wishes to express our most sincere gratitude to the paramedics and staff of Health Sciences Centre.Run Date: Dec 17, 2011GENEVIEVE MARGRET GIRDEN On Saturday, December 10, 2011, Genevieve passed away at the Health Sciences Centre at the age of 85 years. A longer obituary will follow.Run Date: Dec 12, 2011   As published in the Winnipeg Free Press on December 17, 2011