MARY MARTENS (FRIESEN)

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MARY MARTENS (FRIESEN) Mary Martens (Friesen), surrounded by loving family, passed away peacefully Friday, November 2, 2018, at the age of 82. Mary was predeceased by her husband Peter. She is survived by daughter Gail; sons, Wayne and Gary; grandchildren, Mark (Lena), Sheena, Justin, Jaden; great-grandchild Corbin; brothers and sisters, Henry, Helen, Ben (Nea), John (Cathy) and Anne (George). Mary was born August 15, 1936 in Winnipeg and grew up on the family farm in Halbstadt, Manitoba. Speaking low German at home, Mary learned little English until she attended the schoolhouse next door. Through the years her older siblings left home for endeavors in many communities including Winnipeg, and after finishing school Mary moved to the city eventually working as an LPN. In 1958 she married Peter Martens and together they raised three children. Later in life Mary retired to enjoy family, work with charities and some travel. She volunteered at various churches, Lockport, Pine Ridge, WEFC, and became CFO of the White Cross Guild at Health Sciences Centre for a number of years in the 1980s. Mary was known for her spirited nature, deep love of family, a great sense of humour and the ability to organize large gatherings as well as her culinary skills. She was happiest and most content spending time with loved ones. As was her wish, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life is planned for early summer 2019. A special thank you to the various staff along mom's path for their compassionate and loving care. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or the Canadian Mental Health Association.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 08, 2018