MARJORIE FRANCES KATHLEEN FORZLEY

Marjorie Forzley passed away in Grace Hospital on Easter Sunday morning, April 12, 2020, at the age of 98.

Marjorie is survived by daughter Joeann, granddaughters Alysa and Kathleen, as well as best-friend Doris. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Joseph, dear son Richard, sister Adeline Mazza, as well as many extended family members.

Marjorie was devoted to her family and was generous in spirit. She worked hard to help her family with whatever was needed. Her home was spotless and always open to friends and family.

Marjorie loved life, possessed a fiery spirit, and never missed an opportunity to share her opinion.  She was a tireless worker. She was a role model for her family when faced with adversity, always looking for the blessings in life. She married the love of her life, Joseph Forzley in 1947 and this was the beginning of a devoted and loving partnership until Joseph’s death. Marjorie adopted Joe’s Lebanese heritage, learning how to cook his favourite Lebanese dishes. She even grew mint in her garden for the tabbouleh. A highlight in her life was travelling with extended family to Lebanon, Egypt and the Holy Land.  She was instrumental in the development of the Lebanese Pavilion for Folklorama and was the coordinator/mayor for many years. This led to 14 years on the Board of Directors for the Folk Arts Council of Manitoba. Marjorie was very proud of being nominated in 1992 for the YMCA ‘Woman of the Year’ for her volunteer work with Folklorama and the Folk Arts Council. Marjorie volunteered for many years in the community up until the age of 94.

In her younger days Marjorie was a professional theatre singer. She loved to sing for anyone, uplifting those around her. When she sang in church everyone would turn around to see who had that beautiful voice. While in Misericordia Care Centre, Marjorie would often be asked to sing before dinner, always to a warm round of applause. She was known for singing all the verses of ‘Ave Maria’ in Latin by heart on Christmas Eve despite her dementia.

Marjorie lived at 64 Nassau St. for 12 years and was a vital part of their community. She loved to play cards and bingo with her friends and walked to Safeway nearly everyday to have coffee with them. At age 96 while walking by the dart board she was invited to throw a dart. She scored a bullseye on her first throw, ensuring her a place in the weekly game.  

When realizing she was developing dementia, she handprinted a sign that read: ‘Always be happy, life is Good, it’s up to you, Smile’ and hung it on her kitchen cupboard. Mom always saw the rainbow through the storm.

Thanks to homecare for their support which allowed mom to live in her own apartment independently until the age of 97. Thanks to the hard-working staff on the 2nd floor of Misericordia Centre where Marjorie resided for 4 months. Thank-you to Lions Personal Care Home where Marjorie was treated compassionately by the staff and where she lived for the last 5 months. Thank-you to Grace Hospital 4N for caring for mom in her last few days. It was difficult to not be able to see her for the last month of her life, but we are grateful for the compassionate care provided by her health care providers.

We are humbled and grateful to God for Marjorie’s long life. It was a precious gift to have her with us. Mom loved Jesus and we pray she is reunited with Joseph and Richard in a happier place. We are thankful for her powerful positive influence in our lives.

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But now, thus says the LORD: …Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine.

Isaiah 43:1

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Cremation and a private interment have taken place. A memorial Mass at St. Ignatius Roman Catholic Church and a celebration of her life are delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In the meantime, Marjorie’s friends and relatives are encouraged to honour her memory by sharing personal stories and memories and offering condolences by utilizing the comment section on this page.

In lieu of flowers, if one desires, a memorial contribution to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or the Winnipeg Humane Society would be humbly appreciated.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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