Obituary of Emma Garden

Emma Garden

Emma Irene Garden (nee Gorrie)

May 4, 1929 –December 4, 2023

It is with heartfelt remembrance that we honor the life of Emma Irene Garden (nee Gorrie), beloved grandmother, mother, sister, and friend, who passed away on December 4th, 2023, at the age of 94.

Emma, the eldest daughter of James and Florence Gorrie, was born on May 4th, 1929, at the family home on a farm near Treherne, Manitoba. As a young girl she developed a special talent and deep appreciation for horses, often retrieving those that had wandered too far. The Gorrie family was very musical, and Emma expressed her love for music through piano playing.

After graduating from school in Treherne, Emma attended the Agricultural and Homemaking School of Brandon, where she met her future husband, Donald Garden. Both graduated in the class of 1949-1950. Their romance blossomed, and they married on a beautiful October day in 1951.

The couple chose Brandon, Manitoba as their home and soon built a house on 1st Street. Emma and Don were deeply committed to family. They welcomed their daughter, Diane, in 1952, and their son, Murray, in 1956. Summers were filled with camping, boating, picnics, and swimming, creating cherished memories that continued as Diane and Murray started their own families. Emma was an unwavering presence in the lives of her grandchildren. Much of their youth was spent at her home, on trips, or at the family cabin at Oak Lake Beach. As they grew into adults, she maintained strong and meaningful relationships with them.

Emma had various jobs, including Fred's Drycleaners and Woolco, but her true passion was creating a nurturing and supportive environment for her loved ones. For Emma, homemaking was an art that she took immense pride in. She hosted countless dinners and gatherings where extended family often came together.

Emma and Don enjoyed traveling together, with memorable trips to Hawaii, British Columbia, and other destinations. She delighted in gardening, knitting, and ceramics. She and Don shared a love of dancing and music. Emma showed her commitment to the community through volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross, earning a Milestone Award in 2002 for 25 years of service. When Don was diagnosed with Alzheimer's, Emma also volunteered at Fairview Personal Care Home.

After Don's passing in 2002, Emma faced the challenges of this new chapter with remarkable courage and grace. She continued to live in their home on 1st Street for many years, where she warmly welcomed her growing family. As great-grandchildren arrived, Emma remained actively involved in their lives.

Later in life, Emma moved to Victoria Landing, spent time in Neepawa, and eventually settled at the Personal Care Home in Souris. A fall that led to a broken hip contributed to her passing. Throughout her final days, Emma was surrounded by loving family.

Emma was a true friend, always offering a kind word or a listening ear. Her clever wit and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her daughter, Diane Szczepanski (Bryan), daughter-in-law Glenda Garden, and her grandchildren Craig Szczepanski, Cory Szczepanski (Giselle), David Szczepanski, Andrea Garden, and Erin Garden-Seafoot (Dale); as well as her many great-grandchildren. She also leaves her siblings, Clifford Gorrie, Doreen (Pete) Smith and Dale (Irene) Gorrie; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Emma was predeceased by her husband Don Garden, her son Murray Garden, son-in-law Mike Szczepanski, great-grandson Edison Szczepanski, sister Vera (William) Garden and her brother Keith Gorrie.

A graveside service will take place at Beaconsfield Cemetery on Saturday, August 17th, 2024, at 2:00 PM. After the ceremony, please join us for fellowship and refreshments at the Treherne Fellowship Centre.

If friends desire, donations in memory of Emma can be directed to Canadian Red Cross 850 Pembina Hwy, Unit B, Winnipeg, MB, R3M 2M8.