Obituary of Margaret Gagnon

GAGNON: Margaret (Lawson) Gagnon, our much loved Daughter, Mom, Grandma, Sister and Partner closed her eyes, following a brief illness on Monday, May 9, 2022.

Margaret was born on Fair Day in 1956 at Shoal Lake Hospital to Shirley and Arnold Lawson, and spent her formative years in Shoal Lake before moving to work in Portage la Prairie, and later to St. Albert, Alberta.

Margaret returned to Manitoba, settling in Brandon, where she raised two wonderful young boys as a single-parent, all the while studying at Brandon University School of Psychiatric Nursing (1992), and completing a Bachelors of Science in Mental Health.

Margaret's chosen career as a psychiatric nurse would span more than 26 years. Margaret loved her work, she was compassionate and cared deeply about those who were suffering. Those spending time with Margaret know the value she placed on not judging others.

Margaret loved her family dearly and was especially proud of her sons and their families, Tyler James (Carmen, and son August) of Brandon, and Terry Arnold (Gillian, sons Isaac and Delmar) of Edmonton. She was determined to be here with us to celebrate in the joy of the birth of her fourth grandchild in June.

Under Margaret's warm smile, generosity and sense of humour -- she had endless fun planning and carrying out jokes on people -- she was a private person, who read voraciously and loved camping with Cody, his family and their friends.

Margaret is loved and remembered by Cody McLaughlin (Shoal Lake) her partner of 20-plus years, and by her Mom, Shirley Lawson, Shoal Lake; siblings Jim (Val) Lawson, Shoal Lake; Isobel (Gary) Lawson, Edmonton, and many friends and relatives. Margaret was predeceased by her father Arnold Lawson (2008). 

In recent months Margaret developed an aggressive form of cancer, and expressed her appreciation for the care she received. For those who wish, donations may be made in Margaret's memory to Cancer Care Manitoba, 1160-675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 0V9 or to a charity of choice. 

At Margaret's request there will be no funeral service. A private get-together with friends and family will be held at a later date.