JEAN MARGARET OLSON/VINIE (ATKINSON)

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JEAN MARGARET OLSON/VINIE (nee ATKINSON) 1917 - 2014 Jean passed away quietly on December 5, 2014 and entered the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ - whom she loved dearly. Jean was born in Spruce Lake, SK to Rosswell and Kate Atkinson. As the oldest of four siblings in a four year period - Jean would soon assume a leadership role - "a determined gal". She enjoyed a creative, happy and adventurous childhood (living both on a farm and in a small town) with her twin brothers, Nelson and John and her two sisters, Helen and Norma -- surrounded by friends and relatives. She went as far as she could in her one room country school. In addition to studying to the grade IX level at school -- she took piano lessons associated with the the Royal Conservatory of Music up to the grade eight level. Her ability to play by note and "by ear" along with her great memory -- was a special gift and blessing to many folk. In addition to playing at special events and occasions, she was one of the pianists at Bethel Chapel for a period that covers about 60 years. In 1937 she married Percy M. Olson and they farmed at Spruce Lake and later at Dodsland, SK. Two children, Rosswell and Helen completed their family. Tragically, her husband Percy, died from accident injuries in 1947. As a young widow with two children, she moved in 1948 to Selkirk, MB to be near her parents -- who had recently moved from Spruce Lake, SK. In Selkirk, she worked for a short time at the Monarch Overall Co. before going on staff as an occupational therapist at the Mental Hospital -- from which she retired in 1982. Jean, after being a widow for 10 years, married Ralph Vinie in 1957. In addition to Jean's appreciation and love for music and singing -- she was a proficient seamstress, knitter and quilter. She made her last quilt top in the summer of 2014. Many dozens of her extended family sleep under a quilt of her design. She loved to give to others and show her love. For many years she enjoyed her garden and flowers -- but her "Corgi" dogs were extra special. Over a span of some 50 plus years she had "Patty", "Missie", and the boss' called "Copper". She enjoyed the companionship and challenges of the dogs. She also enjoyed and admired other animals, both large and small, like horses, rabbits and squirrels. Jean had a large circle of friends and acquaintances from her work and social interactions. She especially enjoyed her participation and fellowship with her many friends from Bethel Chapel and other churches in Selkirk. Her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ was an integral part of her life. For many years she was an active member (piano player) with a senior's social group. Jean was predeceased by her husband Percy M. Olson in 1947, her husband Ralph Vinie in 1984, and her siblings: Helen Dalzell, Norma Dodding (Fred), twin brothers John (Annie) and Nelson, and stepson Billy Vinie. Left to mourn are her two children: Rosswell Olson (Gail), Helen Mitchell (Bob) and seven grandchildren: Richard, Carla, Daniel and Jason (nee Dnistransky) and Percy B., Kenton, and Celeste (nee Olson); one stepdaughter-in-law, Gloria Vinie and Gloria's two girls, Dana and Denise; brother-in-law, Bud Dalzell and sister-in-law, Belle Atkinson; 18 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews and many dear friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gideons and the church of your choice. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 12, 2014 in the Betel Chapel, 200 Main St., Selkirk, MB at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Ron Hagglund officiating and Rev. Manny Bessa assisting. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements. www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 09, 2014