ESTHER MAGNUSSON (STEVENS) -

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ESTHER MAGNUSSON (nee STEVENS) 1933 - 2014 Surrounded by family, Esther Magnusson passed peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2014, at the Gimli Community Health Centre. She faced her short illness with grace and courage and is dearly missed by her many family and friends. Esther was predeceased by her mother Ragnhildur (nee Benonysdottir); father Jon Stevens and siblings Bill, Lawrence, Ruby, Violet, Franklin, Elert, and Flora. She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Gudni Magnusson; her son Warren Magnusson, his wife Arlene, grandchildren Lauren and Kristen; her daughter Jamie and her life partner Beverly Bain and grandchildren Brandur, David, Lisa, and Amil; and her brother Walter. Over the years Esther was actively involved in the community. She was a member of many organizations including New Horizons, Kinettes, Order of the Eastern Star, Alter Guild for the Gimli Lutheran Church, Legion Ladies Auxiliary, Lake Forest Association and the Icelandic National League. She volunteered for many clubs including the Gimli Figure Skating Club, Minor Hockey and managed the old curling rink concession area. In younger days she was an attendant to the Fjallkona during the Islendingadagurin. Esther's embrace of life was fed by her sense of humour that met every challenge with uplifting wit and generosity. She will be remembered for her overwhelming love of her family and friends. She took a lot of pride in her home and her incredible baking was much appreciated by all who came for coffee or any special events she was planning. The grandchildren were always on the lookout for ginger snaps, haystacks, christmas cookies and the like, that filled several freezers in the cottage and garage. Esther was known for injecting sparkle and life into every moment and for making everyone around her feel loved and special. No birthday passed without a party complete with baking, ribbon and rolled sandwiches, music, singing and joy. She carried on her love for making others happy through the music of the Crazy 8's. She enjoyed many years of entertaining with the group at senior's homes and special venues in the Interlake and beyond. They had lots of fun eventually producing a CD. As per Esther's request, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date. The family wants to thank the Gimli Hospital staff, nurses, Dr. S. V. Patel, and Dr. R. C. Patel for the care she received there over the years. We would like also to thank her many friends and relatives for their support and well wishes during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers and in memory of Esther, donations to the Gimli Community Health Center, P.O. Box 250, Gimli, Manitoba, R0C 1B0 or the charity of your choice, are greatly appreciated. Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli, in care of arrangements. www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 15, 2014