COOL, MARION REITA (nee BUTLAND) - Once diagnosed with lung cancer five years ago, Marion never gave up. She never complained, maintaining a brave and cheerful outlook of an optimistic future - even through the toughest of times she always had hope. She died on May 22 at the Saint John Regional Hospital with her loving children by her side. Marion was born May 28, 1941 in Campbellton, NB, and was predeceased by her loving husband, Donald Cool; devoted parents, Charles and Delina (Cormier) Butland; half-brother, Herbie Butland; and half-sisters, Helen and Betty Butland. Of all her accomplishments, Marion's greatest achievements were in the lives of her family and friends. She had a unique gift to recognize and appreciate the talents in others and to make them feel loved and lifted by her presence. Marion possessed a creative mind, kind heart and brilliant smile. Numerous interests and talents allowed Marion much contentment and joy. Her artistic talents were evident in her many creative projects and floral designs. She was an avid reader, enjoyed music and especially loved gardening. Those that were gathered around Marion's table were always treated to a great feast of home cooking and baking, always made with love. When not using those busy hands she would listen quietly and her beautiful blue eyes would sparkle when you would tell her something that you had done that made her happy. Those who knew her learned that she was a conscientious, organized person who never left a question unanswered or a detail undocumented. Her generous heart filled her home with love, fun, family and friends. She had an attitude that there was always room for one more. She was a loving and caring person, and a devoted wife, mother, sister and friend, always thinking of others first. "To know her was to love her." Marion is survived by her three children, Stacey, Shawn (Carolyn) and Julia Cool of Saint John; her loving brother, Jack Butland and his wife, Aline of Campbellton; and niece, Gail Ermacora of Laval, PQ. She is also survived by close cousins, John Duguay (Claudette) and Peter Duguay (Linda) of Sudbury, ON; lifelong friend, Lucille LeBlanc of Dalhousie; as well as her beloved cats and constant companions, Cody and Max.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, May 29, 2013 at Maher's Funeral Chapel, 64 Lansdowne St., Campbellton, NB. The family will receive family and friends at Maher's Funeral Chapel one hour before the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Saint John Extra Mural Foundation, or any animal rescue society of the donor's choice. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Maher's Funeral Home, Campbellton.