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OLLIE FERRIS Obituary pic OLLIE FERRIS Obituary pic

OLLIE FERRIS

Born: Jun 25, 1940

Date of Passing: Aug 14, 2024

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OLLIE FERRIS


In the early morning hours of August 14, 2024, Ollie Ferris (Semeniuk) passed away at the age of 84, peacefully with family by her side.

Ollie was predeceased by her husband Gary in 2008.

She is survived by her children, Lori Pattle (Kevin), and Renwick Ferris (Corinne), her grandchildren (Keely and Braeden), her sisters (Polly Stoykewich, Stella Peech and Phyllis Surenhagen), along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Ollie was born on June 25, 1940 in Sandy Lake, Manitoba. One of 12 brothers and sisters, Ollie stayed on the farm until moving to Winnipeg where she began working for Canada Safeway. There, she met her future husband, Gary and made a number of lifelong friendships.

They married in 1964 and soon after started their family, first welcoming a daughter, Lori followed by a son, Renwick.

Ollie left Safeway to take on the role she was meant for - being a mother.

The family moved to the Windsor Park area of the city where Ollie remained until her passing.

Ollie liked to keep busy and along with Gary, they owned a small restaurant. Her philosophy was to always give more than people asked for and for that reason she had many loyal customers. Her generosity never went away.

When her children got older, Ollie began working at the Hotel Fort Garry as a banquet captain. Ollie loved being around people and this job suited her perfectly. She worked there for over thirty years and proudly served a number of dignitaries, most notably Queen Elizabeth.

Ollie was blessed with two grandchildren, Keely and Braeden. "Baba" loved them with all her heart and took every opportunity to be with them - feeding off their energy.

In later years, Ollie suffered from several health issues but rarely complained.

Family and friends will miss her but can take comfort in knowing she lived a good life and is now at peace.

In keeping with her wishes, a small private memorial service was held.

Special thanks to Nick Knysh of Eternal Grace Funerals.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 24, 2024, Aug 24, 2024

Condolences & Memories (8 entries)

  • Worked with Ollie at Fort Garry Hotel, was one of the nicest ladies I ever met, condolences to the family - Posted by: Rick Fleming (Fellow worker) on: Sep 13, 2024

  • Our deepest condolences to the family. Ollie was a cheerful, nice hearted patient & will always be remembered. We were very sorry to hear of her passing away, she will be really missed. We are sure the family memories together will give peace & comfort to all. To Ren thanks for your card, really appreciate it & we will keep your family in our prayers. - Posted by: Autumnwood pharmacy staff (pharmacy) on: Sep 04, 2024

  • Some of my fondest childhood memories were times spent with the Ferris family. "Auntie Ollie and Uncle Gary" were an integral part of my upbringing. Spending an evening with Lori and Rene, along with my brother Dwayne, was always a time of laughter and adventure. I recall Auntie Ollie's voice, her caring, and her ability to be the consummate hostess at all times. Given the lasting impression she left on my life, I can only imagine the grief her family will experience at this time of loss. But I can also say with utter certainty that her presence remains within each of us as a living tribute to all the lessons and memories we were blessed to share with her. Sending hugs to her family. - Posted by: Shelley Howk (Muth) (Family friend) on: Aug 28, 2024

  • Lori & Renwick I am so sorry to hear about your Mom! I have many fond memories of our families getting together in the younger years and many evenings where our parents were all out at a social function and we had many laughs and good times. My sympathies on your loss. I remember your mom as a great hostess and a great cook - I ate my first Cornish game hen at your house - I still remember my mom whispering to me "its a miniature chicken eat it"! Thinking of you both during this difficult time. - Posted by: Dwayne Muth (Family Friend) on: Aug 28, 2024

  • Lori & Renwick and family - we are saddened to hear of your Mom’s passing. I remember great times with your mom and dad at Safeway #578 in Windsor Park. Also remember coming to their house in the evening and going up and waking each of you when you were in your cribs. Throughout the years we always keep in touch and had many enjoyable laughs on the phone. She certainly will be missed. Love. Wayne and Doreen - Posted by: Wayne & Doreen BUZAHORA (Friends) on: Aug 25, 2024

  • My sincere condolences to Ollie's children, grandchildren and surviving sisters. I grew up in Sandy Lake and her sister Phyllis and I were very good friends and still keep in touch to the present. I do remember Ollie rushing to the little mirror in the basement area of the school where the school bathrooms were located and quickly peeking to see that the hair was just right and the lipstick was still in good form. In recent years on occasion I would visit with Ollie at Club Regent Casino. Then also every hair was in place and makeup applied expertly. Rest in peace Ollie! Vichnaya Pamyat!! - Posted by: Vicki Lazaruk nee Hnatuk (former member of Sandy Lake community) on: Aug 24, 2024

  • Ollie was on of the most sincere, hardworking, people that I encountered at the FG. She was a joy to work with and always made us laugh. When I think of my time at FG, she is one of the people who is thought of very fondly. My sincere condolences to her family. She was a gem. - Posted by: Tracy L (co-worker) on: Aug 24, 2024

  • Always a very caring aunt, with a special laugh! Thoughts are with the family and peace to all! She is in a special place. - Posted by: Evangeline LeJan & Roy Drynych (Family ) on: Aug 24, 2024

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