Mary Helen McLaughlin (nee:Collins), late of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, formerly of Yellow Grass and Lewvan, Saskatchewan passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 16, 2011 at the age of 95 years. She was predeceased by her husband, Hugh McLaughlin; brother, Tom and sisters Inez, Veda and Betty. Mom is survived by her loving family: children, Don (Doris), Grant (Brenda), Susan, (John); grandchildren, Mike (Joy), Donna (Francis), Pat (Kathy), Tamara (Mark), Rob (Danelle), Jeremy (Kim) and Rebecca; great grandchildren, Jesyca, Eli, Jazmin, Sarah, Tyler, Gracie, Dustin and Ashisa along with many nieces, nephews and friends. Mom was born October 10, 1915 at Lewvan and after high school received nurses’ training at Hamilton, Ontario. In 1938 she married the love of her life, Hugh, and in 1942 they returned home to Lewvan where they raised their family, farmed and lived until 1984. Mom was very involved in the community, especially church activities, directing choirs, playing music and taking leadership roles in women’s groups. Mom was also often a volunteer nurse, helping at summer camps, in schools and locally whenever needed. For 35 years mom taught piano lessons and enjoyed seeing the success of her students. Helping at harvest, assisting in running the general store for 24 years, sewing, curling, natural history outings, trips and times with family, riding horses, spending time at our beloved creek, entertaining with skits, music, games and encouraging others to participate were all important in her life. Mom’s house was always open and she and Dad enjoyed welcoming family, friends and visitors. Retiring to Yellow Grass, Mom became busily involved in a new community, teaching exercises and line dancing, playing music for the church, helping run the drop-in centre and making new friends. In 2005 Mom moved to Moose Jaw where she kept busy with bridge and other social activities. She was determined to keep her mind and body strong enough to live independently. Mom befriended all with her welcoming nature, cheery smile and hearty laugh. A Celebration of Mom’s Life will be held Saturday, April 23, 2011 at 1:00 p.m. from the Yellow Grass United Church, Yellow Grass, Saskatchewan with Reverend John Smith and Reverend David Hanes officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Mary may be made to Operation Eyesight Universal, 4 Parkdale Crescent NW Calgary, Alberta Canada T2N 3T8 or Children's Hospital Foundation of Saskatchewan #1 - 345 3rd Avenue South, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1M6 Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com
Arrangements have been entrusted to
Fletcher Funeral Chapels Ltd.
Weyburn, Saskatchewan
(306) 842-5432