VALERIE MABEL FORD

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VALERIE MABEL FORD

(née OTTO)

Surrounded by family, Valerie Mabel Ford (née Otto) passed away on September 22, 2024, at 72 years old, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Valerie (parents Walter, Mabel) was born on July 17, 1952, in Gladstone, MB. She studied music from a young age, excelling at voice and accordion, and in later life especially enjoyed sharing this musical love with son, Chris and grandson, Cassius. This passion led to a Bachelor of Teaching (music) at Brandon University (1976).

At Brandon University, she met the true love of her life, Daryl Ford, sharing a mutually supportive partnership of more than 51 years together. They were married on August 31, 1973, with son, Glen born soon after. They set roots in Glenboro, MB, (1975) with Chris (Robin) soon joining the family. Family was an important theme in Val's life, showing pride and love for all of her relatives across Canada.

Val dedicated her career towards teaching Gr. 4 and music at Glenboro School, teaching from 1976-2007 (except a 1991 family teacher exchange in New Zealand). She regularly helped stage large musical productions, and her Christmas concerts were can't miss attractions every year. A great supporter to the school's volleyball teams, her ever-present smile lit up the hallways, making dear friends among staff and students alike.

Val loved golf, participating regularly in the ladies league, served on the golf club executive and was a former club champion. In search of a new challenge after retirement, Val turned to painting, throwing herself into this new pursuit with the same joy and vigor that she attacked everything in her life. Val joined the Hamiota Art Club for weekly painting sessions, developing enduring friendships. She quickly developed into a talented artist with paintings being displayed throughout Manitoba.

Val is survived by husband, Daryl; sons, Glen and Chris (Robin); grandson, Cassius; brothers, Ken (Linda) Otto, Tom (Verna) Otto, and Gary (Wendee) Otto, as well as countless beloved family.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 1 p.m. in the Glenboro School gymnasium. In lieu of flowers, please donate in her name to Cancer Care Manitoba or to the Glenboro Palliative Committee at Glenboro Hospital.

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As published in Brandon Sun on Oct 12, 2024, Oct 12, 2024