MARGARET ANNE WILLIAMSON

Peacefully, on March 29, 2023, Margaret Anne Williamson passed away at the age of 87.

She was predeceased by her husband of 60 years J. Patrick Williamson, father Donald Vinnell, mother Ivy Fraser Vinnell, and brother Donald Vinnell. She is survived and will be sorely missed by daughters, Erin Pearson (Murray) and Maureen Williamson; son Donald Williamson (Monika); grandsons, Samuel and Benjamin Williamson; and great-grandson Lincoln Himburg-Williamson. Stepson Jeff Collver (Danielle) and his sons Graham and Adam shared a special place in her heart. Various nieces and nephews and extended family are also left to honour the memory of Margaret.

Margaret grew up in Russell, Manitoba where she made many friends in part due to her outgoing and kind nature. Early school reports detail Mom’s love of talking, and this is one characteristic that never changed throughout her life and contributed to her ability to make instant connections and friendships wherever she went. Her early working career in the bank in Churchill, Manitoba led to a meeting with her future husband Pat - after she was finished enjoying the 10-1 ratio of men to women and a full dance card at the many dances and parties she attended!

After early married life beginning in northern Manitoba, Margaret and Pat settled in Pinawa, Manitoba with their two young girls Erin and Maureen and shortly thereafter welcomed son Donald. In part due to the early tragedy of losing her parents and brother, Mom gave so much of her love and energy to her own nuclear family. She was proud of all her kids and grandkids and would talk endlessly to anyone who would listen about our accomplishments! She loved being a mom and the next two decades revolved around family activities. She gave her time to Brownies, being a hockey mom, volunteering at the teen centre and the school library, and throwing the best birthday parties ever. She loved to teach us cards and games, play piano duets, and make pizza and french fries together. Chocolate chip cookies were her specialty and were in high demand among family friends. Her children’s friends were always welcome in her home, and she was particularly fond of the weekend visits from Don and his university buddies!

Retirement in Texas was a wonderful time for Mom and Dad. They made many new friends, enjoyed dancing and singing, and pursuing their own individual interests. They were a sight to behold on the dance floor and were able to enjoy this activity together regularly to the delight of anyone who watched them.

Above all, Mom hated being “bored” and her lifelong interests included playing the piano and organ, singing (including in the church choir), crocheting and needlepoint, bingo and playing bridge and the slot machines. She was a voracious reader and loved to travel. In addition to cross country trips across Canada and the U.S.A., she and Dad enjoyed travel to the British Isles and several other European countries.

Mom was as resilient as they come. She survived a total loss car crash, colon cancer complicated by C. Dif, and a strike by lightning! Mom’s last years included many health struggles including a long battle with dementia, but her spirit remained strong and unbeatable. While aphasia stole her ability to effectively communicate with others, her own unique language evolved, and she continued to be what we fondly called “the girl who talked too much” for well past what anyone could have expected.

Several years after moving to Winnipeg with Pat to be closer to Erin and Murray and Maureen, Mom’s final home was Tuxedo Villa Nursing Home where she enjoyed many activities. We wish to thank the kind and compassionate staff for their great care. In particular, heartfelt thanks to Merly for all her loving kindness and keeping Mom beautiful! Many thanks also to companions Leslie and Evangeline.

A private service will be held at a later date in Pinawa, Manitoba where Mom and Dad will be laid to rest together. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your own choice.

Margaret’s family kindly requests that all of 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, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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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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