Mary “Mina” Wilhelmina Black passed away peacefully with adopted family on February 16th at Hospice House in Vernon, BC. She lived a full and spirited life, sharing her zest and humour with all who met her on her life’s adventures.

Mina was born to William and Minnie Coll on her family’s homestead in Saskatchewan nearly a century ago. She shared a happy and carefree childhood with four siblings—Isabelle Willison, Irma Schwenneker and Jean Kirkness and one brother Jim Coll. Mina's generosity was immense: She helped fulfill the dreams of her friends—trips overseas, time with children, summer cabin, postsecondary educations—and regularly donated to many charities, including the SPCA and Doctors without Borders (MSF).

Everybody who met Mina experienced her positive force and fierce sense of humour. Mina will be greatly missed by all the people she invited into her life, and we will always remember this inspiring, incredible, independent woman. As a good farmer, she sowed seeds of love and kindness far and wide, and these will be cherished for generations. She taught us that dessert should be eaten first, fancy tablecloths are washable and the beautiful teacups are for everyone, every day.