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ELLEN WALDIE
1932 -2022
Ellen Currie Waldie passed away on Friday, August 26 at Grace Hospital.
She is survived by her children, Bruce (Christelle), Mark, Sloane (Shelly), and Noelle (Bryon); nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; her sister Iris (Grant); brother Art; and numerous nieces and nephews. Ellen was predeceased by her parents, Lester and Violet Currie; her loving husband Murray; and her son Clyde.
Mom was born at the old Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. In her youth she lived in Winnipeg, Riverton, and Selkirk. She and Dad were married in 1954, and they shared over 60 years of life together.
While family was the most important thing in Mom's life, music was a very close second. She sang in church from an early age, and was a member of the Sturgeon Creek (Prairie Spirit) United Church choir from 1967 until she was no longer physically able to continue. Mom also served on several church committees in various roles, including chair of the board.
Ellen Currie began singing with Johnny and his Musical Mates in 1947, and was a regular member of the band until about 1952. After a brief reunion with the band in the 1980s Mom began singing with various dance bands in Winnipeg, mostly at Seniors' dances and in retirement homes. Until the death of her longest-lived musical collaborator, Dan DeBaets, she would often perform several times a week. During one 15-year period she never had fewer than 100 gigs a year, and often had many more. Her active repertoire, which she could perform entirely from memory, comprised over 2,000 songs. She remembered those songs even after her memory had made it difficult for her to do many other things.
Mom and Dad loved to travel, and they never missed the chance to go on a trip, either near or far. They spent summers at the cottage at Spruce Sands, and loved to receive visitors, which they did as often as they could. They loved ballroom dancing, Scottish Country dancing, and in younger years they would put on demonstrations in costumes that Mom loved and that Dad dutifully wore, although maybe with a bit less enthusiasm.
Most of Mom's family died before their time, and she considered herself very fortunate to have had such a long and fruitful life. Because of this, we will be celebrating Mom's life on what would have been her 90th birthday. The celebration will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 4 at Prairie Spirit United Church (207 Thompson Drive) in Winnipeg.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charitable organization of your choice.
ETHICAL DEATH CARE
Simple Cremation & Life Celebrations
204-421-5501 – EthicalDeathCare.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 03, 2022
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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So very sorry to hear about the loss of this beautiful lady. She was a great friend of my mother, Daisy Jonasson as well. My mom treasured the times she spent with her at her cabin in Arnes, Manitoba. They would get into a sing song on the piano every time. She was one in a million. Extremely talented. There wasn't a time she dropped by to visit us and lifted our spirits with her incredible kindness. She will be missed. We were all happy to have known her. Our deepest sympathies to the entire family with all our love. - Posted by: Shirley Ann and Johnny Sigurdson (friend) on: Nov 07, 2022
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Dear Waldie Family - Having lived on the same street and attending the same church for over 50 years, we remember Ellen as a bright, sparkling light - through her singing in the choir at Sturgeon Creek United Church; and in recent years, her expressions of care for our family. Her vibrant spirit is an inspiration to all of us. That energy never goes away. May you all be blessed with comfort and reminders of her love for you through beautiful memories. Gerry & Jeanie McAlpine - Posted by: gerry & Jeanie McAlpine (friends) on: Sep 24, 2022
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My deepest sympathies on your mom's passing. Her passion and love of music, and of course her talent and love of performing! were evident every time she had the opportunity to sing. Her voice and her smile will be missed. - Posted by: Glynis Corkal (past SCUC chorister) on: Sep 12, 2022
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Sending sincere condolences to the Waldie family. Remembering so many fun times at the lake with them all. Also many fun conversations with Mrs. Waldie. - Posted by: Patricia Chegus(Nokes) (Friend) on: Sep 09, 2022
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My deepest condolences. Knowing you guys, she had to be a wonderful mother. - Posted by: David Stevenson (School mate of her boys.) on: Sep 04, 2022
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I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Condolences to your families. She was a inspiration for everyone had the opportunity to share her love of music. This love for music was passed down to her children. - Posted by: Jewel Casselman (Colleague of Bruce and Mark) on: Sep 03, 2022
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Sincere condolences to the Waldie and extended family. - Posted by: Wendy Hanson (Friend of niece Heather) on: Sep 03, 2022
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Condolences to the family on the loss of your loved one. Ellen has now enrolled into the Lords choir and dancing up a storm with Murray once again. On many occasions while doing her nails I was entertained with a great many stories re the family. She was one very proud mother and grandmother. Until you meet again, may you cherish her memory. Carole Williams - Posted by: Carole Williams (Friend ) on: Sep 03, 2022
