Peacefully, after a brief battle with covid-19, Norma went to be with her Lord on December 25, 2021 at the age of 80.

She was predeceased by her husband Gino, parents Louis Henry Coppen and Jane Adelina Jogenburger, brother Ben and sisters Ellie and Sonja. She is survived by her loving son Gini and his wife Lindsay as well as her precious grandchildren Julian, Georgia and Benjamin. She is also survived by her brother Ron and sister Elvira, many nieces and nephews in both Indonesia and Holland and several close friends.

Norma Victoria Coppen was born on February 19, 1941 in Malang, Indonesia. She spent her childhood and teenage years in Indonesia alongside her 5 siblings. It is there that she met her husband-to be, Gino Gegeten and they later wed when she was 17. In 1961, Norma and Gino moved to the Netherlands and then in 1974 they moved to Winnipeg Canada, settling in St. James where their only son Gini was born in 1975. Gini, and later his children, were her pride and joy.

Gini has fond memories of going on many trips with his parents, to Vancouver, Florida, California and Colorado. Norma loved to travel and visit her family overseas. She spoke of them often and enjoyed her last trip back home to Indonesia in 2009 for a family wedding. Norma spent many years working as a home care attendant for the WRHA. She loved caring for her clients, helping them with daily activities and providing companionship.

Norma was a very social person (understatement!) and loved to joke and laugh. She had many friends, and loved to make conversation with people anywhere she went. Her sense of style, right until she passed away, was like no other - people could never believe she was 80! She maintained a very full, active, independent life right up until her illness. She took the bus all over town and loved to dine out, shop and visit with friends (and even strangers!). She loved going on Fairway bus tours (her favourite trip was the International Peace Gardens). In her 70s, she took steel drum lessons and joined a steel drum band, which she enjoyed for many years. Visits with her 3 grandchildren brought Norma immense joy, and they have many precious memories with her that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Norma’s Catholic faith was integral to who she was. She attended St. Anne’s church in Winnipeg for many years. Knowing that she is now with her saviour has brought her family much peace.

Special thanks to unit 6A West at St. Boniface hospital for all of their excellent care. We are so grateful for these healthcare heroes, working tirelessly in these most difficult times.

In Accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held.

​

Goodbye for now Mama
Till we meet again
Say hello to Dad for me