EDITH MARY STANSEL

Peacefully on January 13, 2022, “Grandma Mary” passed away at St. Norbert PCH, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She was predeceased by her husband, Edward Howard Stansel; son Paul (Sue); and granddaughter Jennifer. She is survived by sons Richard (Margo) and Bob (Betty Jane); daughter Pat (Tony); ten grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.

Born in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, England, on New Year’s Eve, 1921, she served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, where she met Howard, a Canadian pilot serving in RAF Squadron 576. They married and soon gave birth to their first son, Richard. Prior to Richard’s birth, Howard’s plane was shot down over the German-occupied Netherlands. He narrowly escaped death and became a prisoner of war. Mary crossed the Atlantic, with baby Richard, in May 1945, and settled in Mille Roches, Ontario, with Howard’s family. Howard was liberated that same month, and reunited with Mary and their son shortly thereafter. After several years living in nearby Cornwall, they relocated to Smiths Falls, where Mary lived for many years, raising her children and assisting Howard with his work as an accountant and court clerk.

Howard passed away in 1985. Mary then followed her son Bob and family to Winnipeg, in 1992.

Mary loved crossword puzzles and was an avid reader. She baked trifle and cookies and cakes of all kinds, and washed all the sweets down with gallons of tea. She was very generous and loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren very much.

She just celebrated her 100th birthday, and was thrilled to receive a note from the Queen and the Governor General.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no service. A private interment will take place in Smiths Falls, at a later date.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​