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HELEN ASHCROFT (STARK)
Born: Feb 18, 1912
Date of Passing: Feb 08, 2014
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryHELEN ASHCROFT (nee STARK) February 8, 2014, Mom died. She was born February 18, 1912, the third of ten children; all predeceased her. She grew up in southwestern Manitoba. In her late teens, Mom moved to Winnipeg. In 1939, she met Joseph Ashcroft. Shortly after their marriage in January of 1941, Dad was sent overseas, where he later became a prisoner of war. Mom did not see him again until August of 1945. They farmed near Bowsman until Dad's death in 1980. Mom moved to Swan River, later to Lions Place in Winnipeg and then to Holy Family Home. Mom has one son, Joe, and six daughters, Margaret Anne (deceased in 1962), Wilma, Ruth, Chris, Midge, and Donni. Six girls born in seven years! She had the mammoth task of being the principal caregiver for their children as well as being actively involved in farming: milking cows by hand, raising chickens, growing a huge garden, operating farm equipment. Mom has eleven grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Her family and friends meant everything to her. Mom was a friendly, sociable person and always tried to keep in touch with everyone. She was always available if anyone needed anything and was good at advocating for others, as well as herself. Her religious faith was of central importance to her; she said her rosary each day and regularly attended church. She enjoyed life and always stopped to smell the roses. She held a wide variety of interests, from playing cards and various hobbies to reading/listening to countless books. She kept up with the latest news and had a reasoned opinion on most matters. Even as she was approaching 102, she walked with her walker and participated in exercises and games. It was still tough to get the best of her in a verbal joust. Everyone was amazed at how "with it" she was. A memorial is planned for Saturday, February 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. In lieu of flowers, please donate to CNIB. Cropo Funeral Chapel, 204-586-8044
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 12, 2014
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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I just heard about Helen passing. My thoughts and sympathy to Joe at this time. I had some wonderful visits with your mom, sometimes I spent a lot more time there than I was supposed to but she always had very interesting stories to tell. She was a wonderful lady - Posted by: Lucia haddock (Cleaning person and FRIEND) on: Apr 21, 2014
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My condolences to all the Ashcroft family. I am the son of Monty and Helen Sanderson (nee Lorette). I still remember the Ashcroft family visit to my grandparent's farm in Aldergrove, BC, back in the early '60's. It was great to connect with family that I didn't know that I had. - Posted by: Steve Sanderson (great-nephew ) on: Mar 03, 2014
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I will never forget the time we spent at the farm in Manitoba. Such a busy lady who made everyone feel so welcome. What a life she has lived! - Posted by: Debbie (Stark) James (niece) on: Mar 03, 2014
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I was hoping she would make it to 102. My mother was her oldest sister, we lived near Swan River before moving to B.C. She was always so much fun, I'm going miss calling her. - Posted by: Melvin Austin Lorette (nephew) on: Mar 02, 2014
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Spent a lot of time with both Joe & Helen when they lived in Bowsman. Our deepest sympathy to you and yours during this difficult time. Paul, Bonnie & Family. - Posted by: Paul Daviduik & Family (Friend/Neighbour Bowsman, Manitoba) on: Feb 13, 2014
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I express condolences on behalf of the Roberge Family. My memories of your Mom are warm ones. I can remember your large and loving family in our small Bowsman church, and recall many happy occasions afterwards when our families gathered. - Posted by: Art Roberge (Friend) on: Feb 13, 2014
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Our thoughts and sympathy are with you at this time. Doris Stark and family (Linda, Janice, Gary, Debbie, Kevin, and Shelley) - Posted by: Doris Stark (sister in law) on: Feb 12, 2014
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With sincere Sympathy. I remember going out to the farm near Bowsman to visit your Mom & Dad with my folks. Your Dad helped my Dad at threshing time when we lived on the Lorette Farm. We considered your Mom & Dad's family good old friends. Your Mom certainly lived to a very old age. It just shows that hard work doesn't hurt anyone. I still have one older brother who lives in Wpg. I married a farmer in southern Manitoba and now live in Calgary for the last 19 years. Joy - Posted by: Joy Van Dusen (nee.Robinson, daughter of Chester R.) (An old family friend who lived in Egremont S.D. & Swan River) on: Feb 12, 2014
