Mary SCLATER

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SCLATER:Mary Marjorie Sclater (nee Johnston), 83, passed away quietly with her son and daughter by her side in the Assiniboine Health Centre, Brandon on April 2, 2012. Mary was born September 26, 1928 in Ninga, Manitoba. She grew up in her beloved village enjoying all things little girls loved to do ~ going to school, playing softball and summer visits at her cousin's farm. When Mary left home, she ventured north to her first job as store clerk in the Rapid City grocery store. It was here that she met Albert Sclater. In June 1949, they were married and after honeymooning in Niagara Falls, they lived on the Sclater farm at Pettapiece. In 1950 Tommy was born, and a year later they moved to Floors Siding, six miles west of Pettapiece. Mary and Ab raised Tom, Ron and Aeleen at Floors, moving to their new home in Rivers in 2002. Through the years Mary and Albert enjoyed being with friends, dancing, curling, golfing, card games, camping and travelling local and afar including Scotland, England, Alaska and New York. The place they loved best was their own yard where they watched the birds and wildlife throughout the seasons. Mary took great pride in her home, yard, garden and appearance ~ never a hair out of place! She worked tirelessly and after the work was completed to her satisfaction, the reward was relaxation with Ab on the patio surrounded by her beautiful flowers, bbq'ing and enjoying a cold beer. Even though Mary was particular and proper with everything 'just so', she so enjoyed a good laugh. Coffee with the neighbouring "Tea Bags" was definitely a joy she looked forward to their last years at Floors. Birthday lunches with Barbara and Marianne were special times for her. Mary valued community and participated in many groups in Pettapiece, Oak River and Rivers. Her dedication and commitment to committee work, as well as strong organizational skills fulfilled a great part of her life. She was particularly active in all levels of the 4-H program; from local, to provincial, to national taking her on travels to all parts of the country. She was extremely proud of the 4-H Ambassadors. Mary enthusiastically chaired the RM Blanshard Centennial Committee in 1984. She took part in many roles of the Rivers Legion Auxiliary, thoroughly enjoying the camaraderie of members near and far, especially the many car trips with Shirley. Mary's beautiful soprano voice made her a valued member of church choirs through the years. She had great faith and supported her church loyally. Mom loved her children and grandchildren so much and supported them in all their endeavours. She dedicated her life to making a good home for her family in every aspect. There was nothing as good as a family Sunday supper at Mom's. Much of what was served had been grown in her garden, canned and preserved. Mary was predeceased by her husband Albert; son Ronald; parents Homer and Annie Johnston; Albert's parents Ronald and Jessie Sclater; brother Ken (Grace); sister Aeleen (Mac Fritzley); brother Kelly (Bertha); brother-in-law Jack Bird; niece Darlene (Johnston) Chapman; great niece Dainah (Johnston) Draper; sister- in-law Lillian (Bob Kennell); and sister-in-law Mina (Jack Treleaven). Surviving are Mary's sister Norma Bird; son Tom (Lynda); daughter Aeleen (Murray Kernaghan); grandchildren Susan, Sarah, Bryna (Frank), Matthew (Raeanna), John, Jesse; great grandson Samuel; nieces, nephews; great nieces and nephews; the Dunns; and many dear friends.Mary strived to live as long as she possibly could as she didn't want to miss a thing. She was little but mighty. She was able to remain in her own home, as to her wishes, thanks to her neighbour Lois, her 'angel on earth'; her family, friends and the many caregivers and services in the community. In the last few years in her home, Mary loved to sit and watch the birds; enjoyed visits from whomever popped in; family get togethers and many television programs. Mary's celebration of life was held Tuesday, April 10th, 2012 at Rivers United Church with Rev. Glenna Beauchamp officiating. Granddaughter Bryna Sclater spoke about "little Grandma" on behalf of the grandchildren with a parting message that Grandma will never miss a future family gathering because she will always be there in our hearts. Mary's son Tom was urn bearer at the church and daughter Aeleen at graveside. Mary was laid to rest next to her husband in Pettapiece Cemetery. Donations in memory of Mary may be made to the Rivers United Church, P.O. Box 444, Rivers, MB R0K 1X0 or to the Manitoba 4-H Endowment Fund Foundation, c/o Dawn Krinke, 1129 Queens Crescent, Brandon, MB, R7A 1L9 or to a charity of choice. Expressions of sympathy may be made atwww.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Center, 727-0330.

As published in Brandon Sun on May 12, 2012