Quietly WAGNER

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WAGNER: Quietly, after a long illness, Iris Bernice "Bee" Wagner (nee Caslick) passed away at her residence, Valleyview Care Centre, Brandon on Sunday, October 7, 2012 at the age of 89. Bee is survived by her husband of sixty years, Al; daughters Daphne Wagner (David Green), Kate Wagner Zeke (John Zeke); grandchildren Rachelle, Paige, Lita and Mikey and great-granddaughter Isabella. She is also survived by her sister Pat Foord-Kelcey; many brothers and sisters- in-law as well as nieces and nephews. Bee was the product of a farm upbringing during the Depression, and she was further shaped by the impact of World War II on her friends and classmates. She trained as a secretary in Alberta, and worked for Veterans Affairs in Winnipeg. Her time as a career woman was sidetracked when she married Al, and after a few years, she happily put it aside as they moved to Dauphin, where they started their family. In a different time, Mom would have run a large company, but having decided to be a stay-at-home wife and mother, she lavished her considerable talents and drive on her family. When she was well, Bee actively supported her children and grandchildren in their academic and extra-curricular activities. She never missed an orchestra, band or choir concert, recital or interview night. She loved to garden, and shared her knowledge of plants, flowers, birds and insects with her children and grandchildren. She sewed everyone's wardrobe, baked bread, and made memorable Halloween costumes. Bee will be remembered as a prolific and accomplished needlewoman, who shared her skill with the community, teaching and demonstrating obscure techniques uncovered by her extensive research. Her intricate quilts were featured in a national magazine and local shows. Bee had a sharp mind, loved a good debate, and kept us all on our toes. She followed politics in the media, and never missed an opportunity to put forward her leftist world view to the more conservative amongst us. She was a strongly principled woman, with high standards for herself and her family. A funeral service took place on Friday, October 12, 2012 at Memories Chapel. Rev. Shannon McCarthy of Central United Church officiated. Committal followed at the Brandon Cemetery Columbarium. If friends so desire, donations in memory of Bee may be made to the Brandon Regional Health Centre Foundation for the Residence - Murray House, 150 McTavish Avenue East, Brandon, MB R7A 2B3. Expressions of sympathy may be made atwww.memorieschapel.com. Arrangements with Memories Chapel & Pre-Planning Centre,204-727-0330.

As published in Brandon Sun on Oct 20, 2012