It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the death of Roberta Katherine Whalen of Chatham, NB, which occurred on October, 18, 2010 at home with her family by her side. After eight years of battling cancer, she is now at rest. Born in Chatham on March 24, 1941, Roberta was the daughter of Alma and Simon Kingston. She is survived by her loving husband, Bill; two daughters, Shannon (Michael) Milson; Tanya (Kevin) Johnson; five grandchildren, Matthew, Bryce, Brendan, Ethan and Avery; there brothers, Leonard (Kathy) Kingston, Weldon (Patsy) Kingston, and Sandy (Mary) Kingston; several nieces and nephews.
Roberta worked for Hotel Dieu Hospital and her family business, Kingston Fuels Ltd., most of her life. She was a working Mom who always put her family first. She was part of a loving marriage to her husband Bill for 48 years. Her favorite memories were times spent with family. Roberta loved her family and they loved her. She was the most organized and hardworking woman you could ever meet. Her home was immaculate with a hot sit down family meal every night. Roberta's secret skill was her ability to plan and organize grand family parties and meals. She was an amazing cook like her Mom Alma. As well, Roberta loved to shop until she dropped especially across the US border. She had a zest for life, a positive attitude and a smile for those she would meet. The last eight years of her life were a struggle but her incredible strength enabled her to enjoy some parts throughout that time. A special thank you to her daughter Shannon who was her personal nurse for the last six months at home. As well, for the special care her husband Bill provided for the last eight years of her life.
Roberta Whalen is resting at Maher's Funeral Home 35 University Ave Miramichi on Tuesday, October 19th 2010 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 20th, 2010 at 2pm from St. Michael's Basilica Miramichi with Fr Leon Creamer officiating. Interment will be in St Michael's Cemetery. As expressions of sympathy donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or the New Brunswick Extra Mural Program would be appreciated by the family. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Maher's Funeral Home Miramichi serving the Miramichi and surrounding area for 100 years. Telephone 773-4321.