Obituary of Margaret Vinthers

VINTHERS: Margaret (1924 - 2017). On April 19, 2017, Margaret Vinthers passed away at her residence at Fairview Home at the age of 92, with loving family by her side. Margaret was born in Winnipeg on August 2, 1924, the eldest child of Charles and Mary Grasby of the Cordova district. She grew up on the farm with her siblings, Dorothy, Harold, and Edna, and attended Lorndale School. At age 13, she began working out as hired help for a number of farm families in the rural area. Mom met the "love of her life," John, at a community dance – drawn together by their mutual love of old time music. They were married on October 13, 1945 in Minnedosa, and throughout their life together; they were a "team," on and off the dance floor!! They farmed in the Brookdale district for 28 years, and all four of their children were born during that time. As with most people of that generation, they worked hard and money was tight, but besides providing the basics of life, they provided an environment of warmth, love, humor, encouragement, and acceptance. Although the children were their main focus, they developed strong relationships with friends and neighbours. Mom was an accomplished homemaker, wife and mother. She loved cooking, baking, sewing, quilting, gardening, canning, berry picking. She sang in the United Church Choir, belonged to the UCW, and helped out wherever needed. She enjoyed curling, cribbage, crokinole, scrabble, jigsaw puzzles. Her camera was never far from reach! She also enjoyed any road trips she and Dad were able to go on, and loved family gatherings with her children and grandchildren. In 1974, Mom and Dad moved to Forrest, MB where Mom ran the High School canteen for several years. After moving to Brandon, Mom worked at the Midway Motel, and later as a cook at the YWCA. After Dad's death in 1987, Mom eventually moved into Lion's Manor. After 12 enjoyable years there, health issues required one final move to Fairview Home in 2012. There, she was comfortable, content, and happy, becoming involved in most of the activities and outings provided there, for as long as her overall health and interest allowed. Mom was a strong woman. She lived alone for almost 30 years after Dad died. She took a trip to Alaska, Portugal, and went on road trips with friends. She took up oil painting, and each of her family members has one of these cherished keepsakes! She also had a collection of elephants – which represent strength, stamina and longevity – definitely some of Mom's qualities! She always showed interest in her families' activities and accomplishments, and expressed pride and love for all of us. Near the end, dementia robbed Mom of her long term memory, but she continued to recognize her family, fought hard, "lived in the moment," and maintained her sense of humor and quick wit. Margaret was predeceased by her parents, husband John, sisters Dorothy Brugger and Edna Vinthers, brother Harold Grasby, as well as brothers-in-law Dick Brugger, Clifford Vinthers, Jake Dyck. She is survived by her children: son Neal (Barb) Vinthers, daughter Joyce (Don) Couling, son Keith (Joanne) Vinthers, and son Steven (Adelaide) Vinthers. Also surviving are ten grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, sister-in-law Thelma Grasby, and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Margaret's life, officiated by Rita Friesen, was held Saturday, April 22, 2017 at the Brookdale Community Centre. Private interment was at the Brookdale Cemetery. As Margaret's family, we extend many thanks to Dr. Deong and all the staff at Fairview Home for their care of Mom. To the E.R. staff on the evening of April 18th - the compassion and empathy shown was exemplary. We extend appreciation and thanks to our families and friends whose expressions of love and support at this time has meant so much to us. Thanks to Jeremy, from Brockie Donovan Funeral Services for his assistance, and a special thank you to Rita Friesen for her part in the service to honor Mom. Donations in Margaret's memory can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 4B-457-9th Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 1K2 or charity of choice.