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WILMA KERNAGHAN (VANCE)
Date of Passing: Mar 22, 2021
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory
WILMA KERNAGHAN
(née VANCE)
1935 – 2021
She is survived by her four sons, Russell (Maria), Murray (Aeleen), Mark (Sheree) and Grant; her grandchildren, Matthew, Stephen (Yasmin), Alana (Alec), Jesse (Tish), John (Randi), Melissa and Connor; as well as her great-grandchild (Hayden). She is also survived by her two sisters, Enid Hartwig and Evie Whitney (Vic); as well as their children. She was predeceased by her parents, Steve and Gladys Vance and her brother-in-law Bob.
She was born in Clanwilliam, Manitoba but raised in Charleswood, after her father came to Winnipeg to serve in the Second World War. In 1956, she married Bill Kernaghan and in 1960 they moved into their new house on Aldine Street in St. James. In 1986, Mom bought a house on Sharp Blvd. where she lived for the rest of her life. Mom loved that house and was intent to never leave it.
When her children were older, Mom returned to the workforce, first working at Dillon Engineering and then working for many years in the office at Oakview Place Personal Care Home until she retired.
Mom loved playing bridge. For many years, she was in several bridge clubs with other women from the neighbourhood. She also loved doing puzzles, listening to late night talk radio and watching sports on TV. Until recently, she would attempt – and usually finish - the Free Press crossword puzzle every day. Mom was especially passionate about curling, a love that was instilled in her by her parents. In her later years, when she was no longer able to curl herself, Mom would record games from TV and re-watch them repeatedly. At one point she discovered she could pay to watch curling online and it wasn't unusual to find her watching one game on TV and another small-town curling tournament on her computer.
Chronic disease significantly limited her mobility for the last ten years and her life became more and more challenging. However, with the help of her family, her wonderful neighbours, as well as community services, she lived independently until the end.
As per her wishes, there will be no formal memorial service. Her favourite charities were the Sandra Schmirler Foundation and Lighthouse Mission.
Epitaph by Merrit Malloy
When I die, give what's left of me away
to children and old men that wait to die.
And if you need to cry, cry for your brother walking the street beside you.
And when you need me, put your arms
around anyone and give them
what you need to give to me.
I want to leave you something,
something better than words or sounds.
Look for me in the people I've known
or loved, and if you cannot give me away,
at least let me live in your eyes
and not in your mind.
You can love me most by letting hands
touch hands, and by letting go of children
that need to be free. Love doesn't die,
people do. So, when all that's left of me
is love, give me away.
ETHICAL DEATH CARE
Simple Cremation & Life Celebrations
204-421-5501 – EthicalDeathCare.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 27, 2021
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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My dear neighbour Wilma. I miss seeing you attending to your flowers and enjoying an evening with Helen and a nice glass of wine in the backyard. You were so independent and taking care of business. I really missed you when I moved but our chats on the phone brought back many fond memories. My condolences to your family and you will certainly be fondly remembered. - Posted by: Linda Neuls (neighbour) on: Apr 03, 2021
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I always think back of the Tuesday nights, two card tables would be set up in the living room. I would watch my Mom when it was her turn to host, prepare some decadent desert, and in later years something a little healthier. I remember as children we would all get to say hello to the ladies as they arrived and then we would be rushed off to our beds. How special this club was to each lady. How strong their friendships were. How lovely and kind Wilma was. Your family lived right beside us on Aldine street. The neighborhood was safe and close knit. Your lovely Mother/ grandmother helped me get hired at Oakview Place after I was married. I am so very sorry for your loss. The world could use more Wilma Kernaghans! - Posted by: Anne Hall (Hazel Anne Firby) (Neighbour (long ago)) on: Mar 30, 2021
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I always enjoyed the evenings that “the bridge club “ was coming over. Your mom was always so friendly and was so pleasant to talk to- until I got shooed from the room and then could hear them all laughing and talking throughout the evening. I know my mom treasured those evenings and her longtime friends as I heard many stories about the families and their neighbourhood parties/play dates etc. I’m sure you will all miss your Mom/Grandma- it’s been a year since we lost Grandma Marg- not a day goes by that I don’t think of her. I hope they are all having a glass of wine and playing a round of bridge together. Deepest sympathies, Patti - Posted by: Patti Russell (Firby) (Daughter of fellow bridge player/ neighbour ) on: Mar 29, 2021
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Sorry to hear of your loss. Condolences to you all. - Posted by: Jim (Cousin) on: Mar 28, 2021
