YVONNE NESS

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Yvonne Ness, on September 22, 2026. Her absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but the love she gave so freely will remain forever in our hearts and in the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Yvonne will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her children, Ken (Andrea) and Darlene Van Elslander (Todd); her daughter-in-law, Brenda; her grandchildren, Jennifer Booth (Aaron), Lynn, Jessica, Marisa (Mat), and Braeden (Arianna); her sister-in-law, Lucy; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents, her siblings, and, most profoundly, her eldest son, Chris, who died in September 2025, as well as many extended family members whom she cherished and carried with her always.

Yvonne was born in Winnipeg on February 27, 1936, and remained a proud Winnipegger throughout her life. Hardworking, loyal, and deeply dedicated, she devoted her entire career to CIBC, including 39 years at the same branch at 3 St. Anne’s Road. She went to work with genuine happiness because she cared deeply for her colleagues and customers, many of whom became an important part of her life. Yvonne took great pride in helping others and in offering exceptional service, always accompanied by the warm, sincere smile that made people feel welcome and will be remembered with such affection.

Above all, Yvonne was a devoted mother and grandmother whose love was unwavering, generous, and unconditional. Whenever her family needed her, she was there ready to listen, to help, or simply to offer the comfort of her presence. She delighted in preparing food and opening her home for gatherings that brought everyone together. Saturday pizza nights became a treasured family tradition, complete with homemade pizza, a variety of dishes for her children and grandchildren, and, of course, little pizzas for the pups. She gladly made sacrifices for her children and family to ensure everyone was happy and cared for, always with a smile and without complaint. Her greatest joy was gathering loved ones around her table, creating treasured memories of food, laughter, and love.

Yvonne also embraced travel and the joyful memories it created. For many years, she joined her brother and sister-in-law on monthly road trips to Grand Forks for fun, shopping, and a little gambling. Her other adventures included visits to B.C. and many trips to Nashville and Hawaii. As a devoted Elvis Presley fan, two trips held an especially treasured place in her heart: seeing “The King” in Minneapolis during his final tour in 1977 and travelling to Memphis to visit Graceland. Long after the journeys ended, the stories, laughter, and memories remained, bringing her happiness whenever she shared them.

Yvonne loved life and had a wonderful gift for filling it with laughter, music, friendship, and fun. She loved playing poker and, for many years, spent Friday nights at her brother’s house playing cards with family. She bowled every Tuesday with family at Club La Verendrye and, after retirement, enjoyed weekly seniors’ bingo with her sister-in-law and friends. Music brought her joy, and she loved dancing the night away at special events. Even at Vista Park Lodge, she looked forward to pub afternoons with live music, singing along and moving to the beat. Yvonne was also a passionate sports fan who faithfully watched every Jets and Blue Bombers game and kept statistics on the players. In her later years, she even joined an NFL pool and did quite well in the standings. Her generous spirit continued to shine at the care home, where she invited her friend Irene from across the hall to watch her big-screen television with her. Kind, giving, and full of life, Yvonne made people feel included and cared for. Her warmth brightened every room, and the joy she brought to others will not be forgotten.

Yvonne’s family invites you to take a few moments to watch the photo biography above and remember a life lived with love, generosity, and joy. We warmly encourage you to share your own photos, memories, and stories in the comments section on this page.

A funeral Mass celebrating Yvonne’s life will be held at St. Timothy Parish on John Forsyth Road on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Following the service, the family invites everyone to gather in the church hall for a luncheon, to share memories and continue celebrating a life that meant so much to so many. A private interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to an animal charity of your choice,

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Vista Park Lodge for the exceptional care, kindness, and dignity they showed Yvonne during her short stay at the personal care home. The compassion and support they offered our mom and our family brought comfort during an extraordinarily difficult time, and we will always be deeply grateful.

Yvonne leaves a legacy of strength, determination, generosity, joy, and an abiding devotion to family. Her love shaped who we are, and the lessons she taught us through her kindness, resilience, and selfless care will guide us for the rest of our lives. We will miss her voice, her smile, her laughter, and the comfort of simply knowing she was there—more than words could ever express. In Hawaiian culture, rather than saying goodbye, they say, “A hui hou”—until we meet again. 

We love you, Mom and Grandma. 

You will remain forever in our hearts, 

and we will carry your love 

with us until that day.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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