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MARY PURCHASE (DERKSEN)
Born: Feb 16, 1934
Date of Passing: Dec 24, 2019
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MARY PURCHASE
(nee DERKSEN)
February 16, 1934 - December 24, 2019
Mary is survived by her children, Gail (Barry) and George (Kathy), grandchildren, Cara (Jade), Christine (Tyler) and Keith, great-grandchildren, Arianna, Blake, Benjamin and Nora, her sister Dora (John), sisters-in-law, Barb and Hazel, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by husband George in 2006, grandson Braden in 2015 and many other precious family members.
Mary was born in Plum Coulee, Manitoba. She married George Purchase on June 14, 1952, bought a brand new home on Day Street in 1954. Mary worked at Woolworths and then Shop Easy/Economart. She made many close friends in the community and loved her friendly neighbourhood. She proudly lived in her house until 2018 when she left due to declining health. With her move to Park Manor, she quickly established new friendships with other residents and staff.
Mary had a passion for celebrating special occasions, was a fabulous cook and always decorated to create the right ambiance. She hosted wonderful Christmas, Thanksgiving and birthday celebrations until her health no longer allowed. Her greatest pleasure in life was seeing her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow and flourish. Although she experienced many losses and was deeply saddened by the untimely death of her grandson, she continued to look forward to what life had yet to bring. She would count her blessings and frequently said, "I have so much to live for." She lived with joy, enjoying special times, many laughs and witty conversations with friends and family until her passing.
We would like to thank the home care workers who supported Mary to remain in her home until 2018 and the staff of Park Manor Care Home for their loving care since October 2018.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Park Manor Care Home or Braden Purchase Memorial Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation.
In keeping with Mary's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family service will be held.
To My Family
I go from you gently for it is my time
To take the next step
In this journey of mine
Don't grieve for me long-
I've not left you alone
For I will be with you
In the love that we've known,
That love is forever,
And some day when it's time
You'll join me again
On this journey of mine.
-Anonymous-
EJ Coutu & Co. Funeral Directors
204-253-5086
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 28, 2019
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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I met Mary while volunteering at Park Manor. She was definitely my favorite resident. We chatted about our lives, her living in Transcona and among so many other things. I will miss her smile (she was always smiling!). My condolences to her family. She will be missed. :( - Posted by: Joanna Ozga (Volunteer at Park Manor) on: Jun 19, 2020
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Mary was a wonderful neighbour. Always shared such kind words and made you feel very blessed. I was very fortunate to have know Mary. So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with family and friends during such a difficult time. - Posted by: Monique Hadaller (Langford) (friend) on: Jan 06, 2020
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Upon hearing of Mary's passing while on a brief Xmas break, I was greatly saddened - not only was Mary a well-liked, lovely resident at Park Manor but she became a good friend to some residents and to staff alike - me included! We will miss her presence at our "Circle of Friends" - a small German Club of sorts where we would meet with a few others and sing German songs. While her German was very limited she enjoyed coming out and would inquire often what the meaning was behind most of the songs. Then, often times she would sing along with us the best she could. We would also have some deep discussions, the seniors leading with reminiscences of good times past, family and spiritual concerns....What always struck me was her positive attitude - that in spite of some profound difficulties and losses in her life, she was able to think yet of all the good life still brought - how she felt blessed. While she felt blessed, we were blessed to have her in our midst!! She was cheerful, always friendly, and encouraging to all around her. The last contribution (to my knowledge) that she made to Park Manor Care was performing the role of "Mary" - mother of Jesus - in the play "No Room in the Inn" - just played several weeks ago for our worthy volunteers. Her last words in the play (said with great conviction) were something like "And I know God will take care of me..." Little did we know that a short while later God would take care of her, end her pain, and bring her safely home! My condolences to all of Mary's family!! Thank you for sharing her with us. May God bless and keep you all as you mourn her loss, yet cherish the happy memories she has given you! - Posted by: Dorothee Reimer (Friend/Staff at Park Manor Personal Care) on: Dec 29, 2019
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So sad to hear of Mary’s passing - very fond memories of her - growing up in Transcona with Gail. Condolences to all of her family and close friends. - Posted by: Brenda Nelson-Neubauer (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2019
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Sorry for your loss George and Kathy, Gail and Barry and your families. Mary was an awesome lady and I'll miss her smile and laugh and big hugs. She may be gone but will always bring me happy thoughts and great memories. Take good care all! - Posted by: Doug McKay (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2019