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Gail Morris

Image by Nick Andréka

GAIL ANNABEL MORRIS

July 16, 1949 – March 2, 2021

Gail Annabel Morris (née Oehm) peacefully passed away on March 2, 2021 in her home, surrounded by her loving family, in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Gail was born July 16, 1949 in Stratford, Ontario. Gail was a beloved wife and best friend of David Walter Morris. Devoted mother of Walt (Cassandra) Morris and Wade (Lucy) Morris. Dear daughter of the late Annabel (née Grace) and Mervyn Oehm and daughter-in-law of the late Ray and Dorothy Morris. Loving grandmother to Brendan, Jared, Rachel, Ryan, Nicolae, and Ivan. Gail is survived by sister Gloria Weitzel, brother-in-law Harvey Marshall, brothers and sisters-in-law Dennis and Barb Morris and Terry and Barb Morris. Also survived by many nieces and nephews.


Gail was predeceased by older brothers, sister, and sister-in-law Floyd and Ida Smythe, Owen Smythe, and Gwen Marshall. Also predeceased by brother-in-law Bob Weitzel, Steve Morris, and Jim Morris.

 

Gail met the love of her life Dave, and they married in 1965. They just celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on January 8th. Together they raised two sons Walt and Wade. Gail was a dedicated wife and mother she treasured and embraced every moment with them. Family was everything to Gail. Some of her fondest memories were watching her sons play hockey, and family trips to Sand Lake, ON. Later in life, Gail and Dave enjoyed travelling together to warmer climates like Florida and Mexico.

 

Gail loved to work. There was never a job too large or too small that she would not tackle. She would get it done to perfection. Her leadership qualities were undeniable and have been passed down to her two boys. She was a strong, determined and fiercely independent woman. She spent over twenty years working at Dominion Chain and then took on a new role which fit Gail to a tee. She used her charisma and gift of talking to people becoming a Real Estate Broker in Stratford, ON.

 

In 2011 Gail and Dave moved to Winnipeg, MB to be closer to their eldest son Walt and to enjoy retirement. Wade and his family have since followed to Winnipeg for the family to be all together. Gail quickly realized retirement was not in her vocabulary. She was the epitome of hard working, her will and passion to work led her to be involved in many roles within Walt’s businesses. Dave’s support and partnership allowed her to shine in everything she wanted to do.

 

Gail had an infectious personality and always made a lasting impression on everyone she met. Making friends with whoever she touched. She had strong values, teaching her family to always treat people with respect, kindness, and that integrity is everything.

 

Gail was a wonderful cook. She loved baking and canning, especially with her Mom Annabel. Gail enjoyed her time at Lake of the Woods with her family, fishing, playing crib, relaxing, and most of all enjoying delicious meals, and her favorite beverage on the dock watching the sunset. Most of all she loved and adored her husband Dave. They truly experienced love at first sight and did everything in life with each other.

 

She lived on her own terms and was happy to leave when God called her into His eternal care. Gail will be forever remembered for her beautiful smile, gentle eyes, caring heart, loving embrace, and unconditional love. She was, and always will be, one of a kind. Gail will always be remembered, and never forgotten.

 

The family would like to thank all of the health care professionals from Cancer Care Manitoba and the Palliative Care Program who comforted and cared for Gail in her final months.

 

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a service will be held in Stratford, ON at a later date (TBD), when it is safe to gather. In the meantime, Gail’s family kindly requests that her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos and/or sharing your own memories and stories using the comment section on this page.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations made to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation would be sincerely appreciated by Gail’s family.

 

I'm Free

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call,
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way,
I found that place at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss,
Ah yes, these things, I too, will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow,
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief,
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

Memories, Stories and Condolences

 

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Blair Gromniski

April 7, 2021 at 12:04 PM

My heartfelt condolences to the Morris family during this difficult time.  I was very saddened to hear of Gail's passing.  Even though I only knew Gail for a brief time, she made an impression of being very kind, caring, strong and a force to be reckoned with. Dave, Walt and Wade, my deepest sympathies to you all and I hope you take comfort in the time and memories you all shared together.  

Robert and Jerrie Ployart

March 13, 2021 at 7:08 PM

In 1969, when  my husband introduced me to Gail, she took me under her wing and became my Stratford friend. Very quickly, Gail became my “FOREVER” friend. The “Heart that Gives” is the perfect phrase for our sweet angel Gail. We went through everything together with tons of fun along the way. When I count my blessings, I count Gail twice!! We love Gail, Dave, and all of the family. Our hearts and love are with you in Ontario. ❤“The Song May have ended, but the melody lingers on”.  Bob & Jerrie Ployart, Taryn, Ryan & Family

Jeff Limburg

March 10, 2021 at 4:47 PM

Our deepest sympathies to Dave and the boys and their families. It has been many years since we have seen each other but I still often think of the days when our families were quite close. We were very shocked to hear of Gail's passing.The world has lost a wonderful person. Jeff Limburg and Family

March 10, 2021 at 1:22 PM

I remember going to visit Gail and Dave with her grandsons when they were little. Having dinner at their place when they moved here to Winnipeg. Gail was always such a warming person making everyone feel welcome. My condolences to the family.

Allison Hornung

March 9, 2021 at 9:07 PM

I was so sad to see that Gail past away.  Working with her and Dave many years ago in Winnipeg and being so far from my own family, I spent many nights enjoying family dinners with Gail and Dave and was spoiled rotten always!  The world has truly lost a gem.  May you all find peace in the memories she has shared with  you all these years, I know I will smile thinking of her always!

Christy

March 8, 2021 at 10:55 PM

I am so saddened by Gail’s passing. She started as a client, but very soon after became a wonderful friend. She lit up every room she walked into and greeted everyone with the brightest smile and hugest hug. I will always remember Gail for being one of the nicest people around. It was an honour and privilege to have known her and to call her my friend. Rest In Peace dear Gail. Thank you for being you. Hugest Hugs to you! And hugest condolences to my friend Dave,too. I am so sorry for your huge loss of your best friend and love of your life. Please be well and take care my friend. HUG❤

Sarah Marshall

March 8, 2021 at 11:25 AM

Aunt Gail, the world works in crazy ways and despite the negatives that a global pandemic has brought over the last year, it also brought me to live next door to you for six months. I am so very grateful for those six months, where we would trade baked goods, have our socially distanced drinks on our decks or if I was having a bad day, I could always go next door for an extra big hug because you  gave the best ones. You also gave me something I cannot thank you enough for and it was the feeling of having a small piece of my own Grandma back. You took the time out of your day to teach me the things she never got to, like making jam and canning and making hot milk cake (even though no matter how closely I follow that recipe, it'll never be as good as yours). Thank you for taking care of my family and bringing them so much joy during a difficult transition. You were truly such a light in this life that I am so glad I got to experience.  Sending my deepest condolences to the whole family.  With Love Always, Sarah 

Paul Schroeder

March 7, 2021 at 5:04 PM

Thanks Gail for being such a wonderful neighbour in our complicated little neighbourhood. 

Janet Zwarick Lawrie

March 7, 2021 at 1:09 PM

What a wonderful and fitting tribute to a wonderful lady.  Dave, Walt, Wade and families my heart goes out to you for you have lost such a loving presence in your lives.  My deepest sympathy. I first met Gail in 1978 over a terrific dinner with her and her sister and my friend, Gwen.  At the time, I had no idea that it would be the first of many meetings, family dinners and celebrations over 40 years.  How lucky my late husband, Bill, and I were to spend so much time and create so many memories with ‘the Oehm girls’ and their families.  When I think back of time spent with Gail, I see a laughing, smiling face and someone who loved to get things done and get them done right!  She always made Bill and I feel like part of the family and we were blessed. God bless, Love and deepest sympathy, ...Jan

don brooks

March 7, 2021 at 8:06 AM

Dave, Walt, Wade and family, Jackie and I are so sorry for the lose of Gail, we have a lot of good memories of Gail and Dave when you lived in Stratford, take care of each other. Jackie and Don Brooks

Doreen Davies

March 7, 2021 at 7:57 AM

Dear Walt and Family, John and I were very saddened to hear that your mom passed away. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. John and Doreen Davies

Gail Weselake

March 6, 2021 at 5:15 PM

My condolences to Dave and the family we will miss her smiling face love to all love Gail Weselake

Jarrod Bradley

March 6, 2021 at 3:55 PM

My condolences to the Morris family . Knowing Gail at work was always an adventure. Will miss you. 

Sheri Pallen

March 6, 2021 at 12:56 PM

My heart aches for Dave and all of the Morris family. Gail was one of a kind. An amazing lady with the warmest heart. I’m thankful & honoured to have worked with her once they moved to Wpg. We weren’t just coworkers, she was one of my friends and I will forever cherish our friendship. Sending my heartfelt condolences to you all.  Love & hugs xoxo Sheri Pallen

Dale Smythe

March 6, 2021 at 11:56 AM

I have many fond memories of Aunt Gail when I was growing up. She will be greatly missed. When we lose someone we love             We must learn  Not to live without them,            But to live With the love they left behind.               Anonymous  Dale & Cathy Smythe

Shirley Shahinfar

March 6, 2021 at 11:14 AM

It is never easy to lose a loved one, and it is especially difficult to lose a wife and a mother. Gail was a truly admirable woman. We were privileged to have known her. Gail's strength and courage was an inspiration to all. Even though she has passed to the other side, we truly believe that she will continue to watch over Dave and the whole family from Heaven. Gail was a true educator and the most caring person. When Shirley and I got married, I had the honours of having my first dance with Mom Gail. During the dance, she gave me the best advise that I would never forget - "A successful marriage is when you try to out love one another." She left behind many blessings, and she will be missed terribly.  We love you very much Mom Gail.  We will cherish your memories until we meet again. Said & Shirley Shahinfar

Brenda Smythe

March 6, 2021 at 9:15 AM

Thank you Aunt Gail for being a bright and cheerful influence in our lives. Go on to brighten the skies above and shine down on us all ❤️ Brenda, Carlee, Tori and families.
DEATH CARE SERVICES OF WINNIPEG INC.  Copyright 2019

Ethical Death Care (Death Care Services Inc.) is privately, independently, and locally owned. Shane Neufeld and the original team of Integrity Death Care own and manage this organisation.

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