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GAIL ELLEN STAPON Obituary pic

GAIL ELLEN STAPON

Born: Nov 29, 1936

Date of Passing: Jun 30, 2015

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GAIL ELLEN STAPON "Out of the iron lung and into our hearts" It is with love, sorrow and respect that we say goodbye to our dear wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, stepsister, and steadfast friend to many. Gail Ellen McDonald Stapon passed away peacefully and unexpectedly during an afternoon nap on June 30, 2015. Gail was born on November 29, 1936, at the Lady Gray Hospital in Nipawin, SK, the middle child of Dorothy Lindsay and Fred McDonald. When the family homestead burned, they moved to Fort Rouge, Winnipeg, MB. She suffered polio at age 11, and her repose in the artificial lung forged her iron will and courage. She attended Earl Grey and Tech-Voc Schools, and met the love of her life and future husband, Norm, at the tender age of 16. They were married on a frosty January 8 in 1954. By the time she was 24 years old, she and Norm were blessed with five children. They raised their young, rambunctious family with Gail working nights to help pay the bills while Norm worked at MTS, played for the Bombers and entered civic politics. She was a passionate supporter of those who were underprivileged and worked many years as a volunteer Director for the North End Housing Association and several other non-profits supporting women in need and affordable housing for the poor. As well, Gail was a lifetime member of the Liberal Party of Manitoba and even ran twice provincially. Without too much to do, and while keeping her furious five in line with the wooden spoon, Gail, at the age of 32, co-founded Folklorama in the 1970s; 45 years later, it is the world's largest and longest-running multicultural festival. She was proud to be honoured at the 25th anniversary of Folklorama. Gail was not only a devoted mom and generous volunteer, she was a successful entrepreneur. She ran a variety of home-based businesses, selling wigs, cosmetics, and Tupperware, and became an excellent realtor, eventually becoming a Broker founding Stapon 1st Realty, employing many others. Gail was a natural redhead and her fire and energy were almost boundless. She loved to play cards, took pride in being nicknamed "Psycho bidder", and a highlight was partnering with Omar Sharif in a world-class bridge tournament. She was a passionate fisherman, using only giant lures for the big catch. She was a great cook, planning and preparing many a meal for family and a wide circle of friends. Gail loved to party, drink, smoke, laugh, and love. A seasoned Toastmaster, Gail's poems, lyrics, story-telling and humour were a hit on many social occasions and family gatherings. She and Norm enjoyed outings to the Legion and an occasional spin of the VLT. They travelled widely with their children and grandchildren, taking them and others on a white-water rafting trip down the Fraser River, on toboggan rides down Mt. Swansea, BC, on boat and snowmobile rides at Falcon Lake, and on elephant rides at the zoo. She was an equestrian, avid reader, poet, artist, and entertainer. Her love, compassion and care were not only worn on her sleeve but enveloped everyone in her radiant sphere. Truly, Gail shone, and her light will live on in her family and friends. Gail will be missed by her husband Norman, brothers Barry and Myles, her children, Grant, Craig, April, Mona and Garth and their respective families. As per the Well Seasoned Gal's pact, Gail's honorary pallbearers are Doris Towbridge, Elaine Hardinge, Lillian Linges, Irene Hodgson and Sophie Nimchuk. In keeping with Gail's wishes, her body has been donated to the University of Manitoba, Department of Anatomy. A memorial service will be held in her honour on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Coutu Funeral Home, 680 Archibald Street, Winnipeg, MB. In lieu of flowers, please make arrangements to make a donation to your favourite charity on behalf of Gail. The Coutu Family in care of arrangements: E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS 680 Archibald Street 204-253-5086 ejcoutu.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 09, 2015

Condolences & Memories (14 entries)

  • What a wonderful life. Her exuberance for it has been passed to her son, Garth. I am thinking of her family. - Posted by: Marsi Boon (Friend of Garth Stapon) on: Jul 14, 2015

  • Our deepest condolences to Norm and family. In my youth Gail was like an Aunt and in later days, a friend. Nobody in my memory had the ability to accept and love others quite as easily as Gail. This short separation is made tolerable by your ever shining light. When you meet me at the pearly gates please ask me how I am; for I will tell you that "I am in good shape, for the shape I am in!" I love you, Stapons all. - Posted by: Morgan Thomas (Family friend) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • I met Gail when mother (Addie) married Fred (Mac), Gail's father, and was introduced to an interesting and remarkable family. Social occasions were always entertaining with this group. I always admired Gail's ability to work hard, play hard, show compassion for others and maintain a grand sense of humor. Gail's kindness and respect for mom was always appreciated. We will miss you Gail. Condolences to Norm and family. - Posted by: Ron & Suzanne Styles (Stepbrother ) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • I met Gail at the Transcona Legion but felt an instant connection. Gail and Norm were such inspirational people. I loved chatting politics with Gail and she always had great advice. We only connected for a short while but I will remember her words forever. She was a strong women and I will miss her mentoring. - Posted by: Faye Jashyn (Friend) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • Sorry to hear about Gail, sincere condolences Dan Tysz. - Posted by: Dan Tysz (Worked with Norm at MTS.) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • Auntie Gail, What an incredible life and lady you were. Auntie Gail,an advocate for those in need,a visionary for the Liberal Party of Manitoba (would have made the BEST Woman premier))a courageous and fun loving spirit who taught me to water ski at Falcon Lake,and one who instilled "There is nothing to fear but fear itself," and Auntie Gail was never afraid! The definition of hospitality was Auntie Gail. She taught by example and could capture one in conversation by not only what she said BUT how she said it.Her twinkling eyes,"silver bells"tone of laughter,positivity non-judgemental and convincing style was fabulous.Auntie Gail was extremely proud of all her children's accomplishments, talents and skills.She loved each of them, to the moon and back . To Grant,Craig,Garth,April,Mona and their families. My deepest condolences.Uncle Norm,may the many special memories,you have with Auntie Gail,give you comfort at this difficult time.Auntie Gail will remain in our hearts,always remembered,always loved. May you Rest in Peace Auntie Gail. With much Love and Compassion to the Entire Stapon Families.... Vida Balciunas...Vancouver B.C. - Posted by: Vida Balciunas (Relative) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • Gail will always be remembered as a true & honest friend to us realtors whom had the pleasure of working with her. Flo Skinner in Vancouver,b.c. - Posted by: Flo Skinner ((Realtor Friend) on: Jul 10, 2015

  • Sincere condolences to Norm and family on behalf of Joyce and myself. Cliff and Joyce Durston - Posted by: Cliff Durston (Norm was one of my business associates for many years at MTS.) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • Gail, "It was so wonderful to have met you; we had so much fun laughing together in Phoenix; we are so sorry to see you go. Your giving nature and passion for life will live on forever in the hearts of many. We are very honoured to have met you. Gail may you rest in peace." - Posted by: Sharon and Guy Jones (Family friends) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • I HAD TOLD GAIL ON MANY OCCASIONS THAT SHE WAS THE BEST MOTHER-IN-LAW IN THE WORLD - AND SHE WAS! I WAS BLESSED TO HAVE HER IN MY LIFE AS AN INSPIRATIONAL ROLE MODEL, A CONFIDANT, A LOVING SUPPORT, AND A WONDERFUL GRANDMOTHER OF MY CHILDREN. GAIL, YOU WILL BE FOREVER MISSED AND NEVER FORGOTTEN. - Posted by: ELAINE STEWART STAPON (DAUGHTER-IN-LAW) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • The best Mother In Law anyone could have asked for. I Love You and I will miss you. - Posted by: Patricia Stapon () on: Jul 09, 2015

  • Amazing woman who was loved by all! RIP beautiful lady!! - Posted by: Sonia Feakes (Nimchuk) (Long Time Family Friend) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • Sad to read of Gail's passing. I had met her during my Real Estate career when I lived in Winnipeg, and admired her.She had a zest for life, and was constantly involved in many activities. May her memory be for a blessing!!! Rest in Peace, old friend....Esther Weinstein in Vancouver. - Posted by: Esther Weinstein (Realtor friend) on: Jul 09, 2015

  • It's always sad to read of someone's passing, but when an old friend is involved it cuts deeply. My sincere condolences, Norm. - Posted by: Eddie Harper (Teenaged friend from Norwood, puppy donor.) on: Jul 09, 2015

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