REBECCA MARY WINIFRED LOUCKS (EDWARDS)

Known to all as WINNIE

March 6th, 1917 North Battleford, SK.

December 19th, 2013 Invermere, B.C.

Predeceased by her late husband Dick,

both of Invermere.

It is with heartfelt sadness that we

announce the passing of Winnie who left us on Thursday, December 19th at the age of 96 years.

Over the years, Winnie had many interests. She loved square dancing, skiing, skating and music. After being a stay-at-home mom, Winnie ventured into the workplace, working in a clothing store, driving a special needs childrens’ bus, working in a bookstore at Mount Royal College and driving a parts truck for Calgary Motor Products. When Winnie retired, she moved to the Shuswap with her husband Dick, where they set about the daunting task of building their own home before finally settling in Invermere in 1996. Growing up she loved her sports, and loved to be outdoors. In her later years, Winnie liked to watch her Blue Jays and her Stampeders – she even liked the NFL. Since moving to Invermere, Mom made many new friends through her knitting group and the Royal Canadian Legion, where she was a loyal member, while always staying in touch with past friendships throughout her wonderful 96 years. Winnie even had what she called an extended family here in the valley. In the later part of her life she loved to go on cruises including trips to Alaska, the Caribbean, Panama, Mexico and Hawaii. Mom always spoke about returning to North Battleford which we did this past May. She had such a zest for life and lived every moment to its fullest – always with a smile. Winnie was a life member of the Eastern Star. There were so many sides to this extraordinary woman’s life.

Winnie is survived by her two daughters Kelly Williams and Georgena Loucks of Invermere, her nieces and nephews Priscilla (Jim), Ross (Natalie), Jacquie (Pat), John (Susan), her great nieces and nephews Nicholas (Suzanne), Tyler (Kristina), Michael (Heather), David (Meagan), Robert (Alisha), John Paul, Jamie, Alexx and Kat. She also enjoyed her eight great-great nieces and nephews, with one more on the way.

A very special thank you goes out to all the staff, doctors and especially the nurses at the Invermere Hospital who were with Mom at the last.

MOM

We are so lucky to have had you in our lives

Thank you mom for being there

Whenever we were in need

Encouraging us whenever we were unsure

Giving us the strength to succeed

When life seemed really impossible

You wiped away our tears

And with gentle words of wisdom

You soothed away our fears

You will be sorely missed and truly loved beyond measure

As per Winnie’s wishes, no formal service will be held but a Celebration of her Life will take place at a later date with her family and friends. Donations can be made in Winnie’s name to a local club, organization or charity of your choice.