Obituary of Teresa Mary McLaren

McLAREN: Teresa Mary "Tess" McLaren of Brandon, beloved mother of Anne Harrison, passed away peacefully at her residence, Dinsdale Personal Care Home, on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at the young age of 100 years. Tess was born in London, England on September 1, 1909. Early years were spent attending school and working in her father's bakery. Her parents emigrated from Germany. Tess attended primary school in England and boarding school in Brussels, Belgium where she excelled in piano and the arts. She spoke both German and French fluently. While working as a clerk at the bakery she met John "Ross" McLaren. She married Ross and came to Canada as a War Bride setting up home in Brandon. She worked at Eatons in the drapery and china departments. Tess belonged to the Catholic Women's League and the War Brides. She was strong in her faith and enjoyed singing in the choir at St. Augustine's Church. Tess loved the classics, even good old Bing Crosby. She also took great pleasure in reading, knitting and gardening. Tess is survived by daughter Anne (Ray) Harrison, two granddaughters Catherine (Jeff) Warwick and Christine, two great granddaughters Elizabeth and Angela Warwick, all of Charlottetown, P.E.I. She was predeceased by her husband Ross, her parents Michael and Anna Liell (Stiltz), brothers Lorenz, Valentine (Frances), Arthur (Freda), sister Josephine (Fred) Wickings, nephews Peter, Eric and great nephew James. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St Augustine's Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Fr. Dominic Yuen as Celebrant. Active Pallbearers were members of the Knights of Columbus and Catholic Women's League. Interment followed at Rosewood Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Tess may be made to a charity of choice.