Obituary of Grace Mabel Whaley

WHALEY: Grace Mabel Whaley (née Fleming) March 22, 1924 – November 11, 2016 Grace Mabel Whaley, passed away peacefully after a short illness at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Friday, November 11, 2016 at the age of 92 years. Grace was predeceased by husband Ken and her parents: John and Joyce Fleming and siblings Ray Fleming; Tom Fleming; Edith Brown and Margaret Coma, all formerly of Winnipegosis. She is survived by her three sons: Raymond (Gail); Kent (partner Martha) and Drew (Marilyn) and by brother Clarence and sister Leona both of Winnipegosis and six grandchildren: Rhett (Sasha), Scott (Sarah), Shannon, Andrea (Roger), Pam (Dylan) and Kaitlyn Whaley; two great children: Desmond and Max and many nieces and nephews. Mom was born and raised in Winnipegosis, Manitoba. At age 18, she enlisted into the Royal Canadian Airforce and spent her four years of war time service in various postings throughout western Canada. After the war, she returned to Winnipegosis and opened a café. There she met Ken, also a war vet, who was then working for Manitoba Forestry Branch. They soon were married and moved to Seven Sisters Falls in Eastern Manitoba for a time before eventually relocating to Douglas, Manitoba. There they raised their three sons while both Mom and Dad worked at Camp Shilo. Mom was a baker and cook in the various mess halls in Shilo for nearly 30 years. Our Mom dedicated her life to her family. She was a woman of strong faith, resolve and commitment to the community, her many friends and extended family members. She could make a lasting impression on just about anyone she met. Mom loved to re-visit her past wartime, work, and childhood experiences, which through her long life largely shaped her outlook and focus on life, attitude towards others, and fueled her long standing desire and affection for peace and harmony amongst all. After retirement, Mom remained in Douglas for a short time before moving into Brandon. She enjoyed her time at Lions Manor before ill health forced her to Hillcrest and then Dinsdale personal care homes. The family is very thankful for the wonderful assistance and tender care Mom received at both homes. During her time in Brandon, Mom belonged to Club 77 and enjoyed so many dances there and at other venues in Brandon. Mom was also a lifelong member of the Royal Canadian Legion and was a faithful participant at many Remembrance services in Carberry. Mom was interred at Madford Cemetery after a service in the Douglas United Church, of which she was a member of and choir participant for many years. Pallbearers were her six grandchildren. A Legion Honor Guard and family friend, bagpiper Tom Ruston, also attended. A further time of Remembrance was held in the Douglas Community Hall. Brockie Donovan Funeral Home was in care of arrangements. If so desired, donations can be made on Mom's behalf to the Douglas United Church, Box 24, Douglas , Manitoba, R0K 0R0. I've rested my eyes and gone to sleep, But memories we've shared are yours to keep. I've lived a life filled with joy and fun Live on now, Make me proud of what you've become…