JUNE DORAINE GISLASON (MCKNIGHT)

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JUNE DORAINE GISLASON (MCKNIGHT) August 14, 1921 September 18, 2014 Peacefully, with her family at her side, our Mother passed away on September 18, 2014. She was 93 years of age. Mom is lovingly remembered and will be missed by her children, Conrad (Donnalyn), Beth (Wayne), Bonnie (Larry) and Stefan (Barb). She also leaves to mourn 14 grandchildren, Leslie, Kristen, Stefan, Kristjan, Thor, Eric, Jane, Mackenzie, Stefanie, Karl, Paul, Robin, Laura, Leifur, her 12 great-grandchildren and her sister-in-law and lifelong friend Mabel McKnight as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Mom was predeceased by her husband Thorarin, an infant son Thorarin, granddaughter Sarah Jill Gislason, her brother Richard Henry McKnight, sister-in-law and lifelong friend Mary Hjartarson (Gislason). Mom was born August 14, 1921. She was raised on the family farm at Homewood, MB where she completed her formal education. She then moved to Winnipeg where she studied for and received her Teacher's Certificate and Principal's Certificate. Her next stop was Steep Rock, MB in 1940 where she began her first teaching position. Her commitment to and her passion for teaching led to 34 years in the teaching profession. Mom met our father Thor during her time at Steep Rock. They were married on September 18, 1943. Mom and Dad made brief stops in Reykjavik, MB, Carman, and Pine Falls. The family grew as four children arrived and in 1954 the family moved to Winnipeg to take advantage of the educational opportunities there. In 1975 Mom realized her long term goal and received her Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) degree. She developed and presented a number of pilot programs that were to change the face of education. In 1981 her work was recognized by the Canadian College of Teachers as "Teacher of the Year" in Manitoba. She was described as the teacher's measure of a teacher. Mom was a longtime member of the Unitarian Universalist Church. She especially enjoyed her involvement with the children at church every Sunday. She was instrumental in bringing Winnipeg Harvest to the church in 1991. Mom was very passionate about the rights of those who are struggling, especially children. She fought for the continuance of Harvest at her church. It continues to this day. In 1998 Mom was the recipient of the Unitarian Universalist "Social Justice Award". Mom retired in 1984 after many years as an educator. She was a dedicated community servant who advocated for the less fortunate. She was finally able to devote her time to her family, especially her grandchildren. She was then able to travel and take time to enjoy her love of the Arts and the written word. Her travels through England and Asia always included visits to art museums and to sites important to western civilization. Mom was a "formidable woman" rising to the challenges life presented. She truly made the world a better place. She will be deeply missed by her large family to which she devoted her life. Funeral service will be held on Monday, September 29 at 1:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 603 Wellington Crescent. Rev. Millie Rochester officiating. Additional parking is available at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 59 Academy Road and is accessible from Wellington Crescent. Private family interment to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family would be grateful for donations to Winnipeg Harvest, 1085 Winnipeg Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 9Z9. The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Misericordia Place. The standard of care and the compassion shown to Mom was exceptional. We especially appreciate the affection and loving care shown to our Mother. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
Publish Date: Sep 27, 2014

JUNE DORAINE GISLASON (MCKNIGHT) August 14, 1921 September 18, 2014 It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our mother June, on September 18, 2014. Full obituary and funeral arrangements to follow in Saturday's paper.
Publish Date: Sep 23, 2014

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 27, 2014