Obituary of Loraette "Laura" Cliffe

Loraette Isabella (Mackie) Cliffe

June 10, 1919 – November 30, 2023

It is with heavy hearts we say goodbye to the “best” Mom (Laura), “favourite” mother-in-law, “best” Grandma, Great Grandma, Sister, Auntie, Cousin & Special Friend who passed away with her Daughter Dawne holding her hand on Thursday, November 30, 2023 at ValleyView Care Centre, Brandon, MB.

Mom was born June 10, 1919 on Sec 20-6-19 W, Whitewater Municipality, MB, first of three daughters, Grace(2004)(Doug(1968) & Ruth(2019)(George (2011) born to Alma Frances (Campbell) Mackie(1953) & William Mackie(1958). The family soon moved to Minto, MB. Following High School Mom began a career as a telephone operator (Minto). Soon a handsome mechanic, Gordon James Cliffe (1970) stole her heart & they married November 23, 1943. Richard William Donley Cliffe (1967) & Alma Dawne (Cliffe) Obleman completed our family. Mom & Dad lived in Boissevain, MB, Sintaluta, SK & after Dad passed (1970) Mom moved to Brandon, MB (1972).

Life in Sintaluta found Mom very involved with the United Church, OES (Order of Eastern Star), Girl Guide leader, driver of kids to activities, curled, danced the night away, played cards & games. Mom was the “best” cook/baker & our house was Hallowe’en central for the best candy apples. Upon her move to Brandon she transferred memberships to Trinity United Church, UCW,  OES (Queen Mary Chapter #3) & began a job at Woolco. Many special lifelong friends were gathered along her journey.

Giving up her “wheels” was not a good adjustment for her! Her punctuality was her biggest concern as she was “never” late! Mom was discouraged not having her independence and COVID was tough for us all! Hard to believe she was born when no telephone service existed for a time to cell phone, text, twitter & during COVID we were able to hook up through Skype and she was amazed!

Dawne & Bob, grandson Rick & Carla, great granddaughter Avery, great grandson Jace & Matt will truly miss her! Mom was predeceased by granddaughter Daphne(1978). Nieces & nephews Anne (Steve) & Edward (Marielle); Karla; Marlene (Don) & Pat; Cliffe & Craig; Pat (Rick) & Murray, Ron & Shelley & their   families; cousins, & her many friends will remember their special memories of Mom.

As per Mom’s wishes a private family graveside service will be June 10, 2024, in Brandon Cemetery.

Our family want to thank ALL of you for ALL you did for Mom throughout her 104 special years! Truly a remarkable life & as Mom would say, “I did it my way”!

When we lose someone we love we must learn not to live without them but to live with the love they left.