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TRISH (PATRICIA) CAIRNS-MITTON Predeceased by husbands, Gordon Cairns in 2000 and Brian Mitton, only a few short months ago (June 2018). Left to cherish the beautiful memories of this strong and kind soul are daughters, Tammy (Terry), Patricia (Kirk) and Donna, "sons" Dustin (Lindsey), Brandon (Martina) and Devon (Amanda), grandchildren, Brendon, Dustin, Easton, Darby, Elora, Adrianna, Callen, Micah, Elizabeth, Luisa and Serafina. She is survived by her parents, Norman and Viola Wilson; brothers, Jim (Denise), Bill (Nita), Gordon, Glen (Patty) and Ken. Her brother Bill, in particular, was always supportive, and despite fighting like cats and dogs as children (and one attempted murder with a vase when they were in elementary) grew close as they aged. Trish was very close to her daughters, and truly enjoyed the time she would spend with them, and had fond memories of their early years and family time with their father, Harry. She was a true Royal Canadian Air Force brat, born in Goose Bay, Labrador and had a nomadic childhood. Newfoundland, Alberta and Ontario were all places she called home. Her final years were spent in Winnipeg, a place she always said had "soul". Here she believed she had finally found a place to make her home and happily put down roots. A beautiful former beauty queen, it took years for her to believe in herself. Still, despite an inability to stand up for herself, woe it be to anyone who picked on her children. When in Momma-bear mode, there was no one that could match her passion and fire. A naturally compassionate and loving person, she was drawn to work in health care, where she enjoyed a career working with physicians and hospitals, always ensuring excellent care delivery and smooth organization. After trying early retirement (and failing at being leisurely) she found herself bored and took a position managing a 55+ building. Always going above and beyond, her gentle and careful care of all, and especially the most vulnerable residents, filled her days, and helped to find another place that she was valued and loved. Reaching 65, she once again retired and focused her time on her beloved husband Brian. Trish and Brian were blessed to find each other in 2003 - they both knew that theirs was a love that would happen once and for always. Trish was a simple person, one that relished the simple pleasures in life, and this relaxed joy was matched by Brian. A good movie with some snacks, a fun, sunny day on the golf course, the two spent every possible moment together. Other than when he worked, they could always be found laughing, loving, and holding hands. When Brian suddenly passed away in June, Trish was lost, and struggled to find ways to fill her days. She revisited early hobbies in art and swimming, but they were not enough to soothe her grief. Although it was cancer that took her life, her family knows it was really a broken heart. We find tearful joy in the knowledge these two kindred spirits are now reunited. Special thank-you to Concordia Hospital NIS and Palliative Care for their compassionate care and family support. In lieu of flowers, please donate to CancerCare Manitoba. Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 1 at 133 Matheson Avenue East.
Publish Date: Oct 29, 2018

Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 29, 2018

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

  • It is a tremendous blessing to know my Mom passed away wrapped in a blanket of love. When my Stepdad passed away suddenly on June 13th my Mom's heart was shattered. She started to feel ill in August, and the doctor said it was probably grief and influenza. In September the doctor put her on meds for strep throat, and a few weeks later they said she had pneumonia. On Oct 9th, I called an ambulance to take her to Emergency so we could get answers. Within days we learned she had lung cancer which was spread extensively to her lymph nodes and her brain. Thanks to my amazing manager and friend, I was able to work remotely… and this allowed me the incredible honor of taking care of my Mom, until she passed away peacefully at home on Oct 25th. My Mom was a sensitive soul. She loved deeply with her whole heart, and by doing so she touched countless hearts throughout her 66 years. In her last few weeks, she received phone calls from friends and family across the country, and she was tickled when a close childhood friend flew into town just to spend time with her. The day before she left us, Mom asked for some visitors to stop by, within minutes we had a line-up; dozens of friends stopped by to say goodbye and to let Mom know how much she means to them. I hate that my Mom had to go, and I miss her terribly every single day, but it warms my heart to know she is dancing with my Stepdad in heaven, and I have joy in my heart because Mom left us knowing she was deeply loved by so many. - Posted by: Patricia DeMeyer (Daughter) on: Nov 14, 2018

  • I am devastated to hear this news and also that Brian also passed away. I worked with Trish at the HSC in Gastroenterology. We had many a good laugh while she was there. She shared stories when she met Brian. I even attended their wedding. I am so happy that they found each other even though their time on earth was short. RIP my friend. You were taken too soon. - Posted by: Jackie Cantin (Former co-worker) on: Oct 30, 2018

  • Truly touching words. My condolences to the family and especially to Donna Riguidel, my colleague. You are in my thoughts and would like to send strength as you celebrate your Mom's life and treasure the memories! Jojo - Posted by: Johanne Richer (Co-worker) on: Oct 30, 2018

  • RIP Trisha your job here on earth is done. - Posted by: Dorothy Wiens (Friend ) on: Oct 29, 2018

  • I enjoyed working with Trish, she put her faith in me to complete work in apartments to her satisfaction and I never failed her as a contractor. Over the years we became friends, everyone should have a person like Trish in their world. The times I would scare the heck out of her and we would laugh it off. The visits before and after her life fell apart were always good for the soul. Brian became a great friend and missed him as well. It is strange working at Matheson and not being able to pop by to say Hi. Really going to miss her. Until we meet again my friend. Your Bud Rod - Posted by: Rod (Friend) on: Oct 29, 2018

  • Oh my gosh, so sad! Touched my heart and I didn't even know her. Just happened to read it. My condolences to all family and friends!. - Posted by: Patty (Friend/student) on: Oct 29, 2018

  • I was so sad to hear of Trish’s passing. Our mother, Fanny Mock, was one of the residents Trish took under her wing. Mum’s home care didn’t arrive until 10:00 to prepare breakfast. Every morning Trish would bring Mum coffee to make sure she had something until she had breakfast. Personally, I always believed Trish wanted to make sure Mum was still alive, she was over 100 at this time. My sister’s, brother and I were very grateful to Trish. We knew that as long as Trish was there, Mum was in good hands. Rest In Peace Trish. Condolences to the family. - Posted by: Elayne Mock (Daughter of former resident of 133 Matheson E.) on: Oct 29, 2018

  • A truly beautiful woman and friend. - Posted by: Audrey (Friend) on: Oct 28, 2018

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