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TAMARA ALEXIS VARNES
Born: Jan 17, 1962
Date of Passing: May 06, 2016
Offer Condolences or Memory Make a donation to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation
TAMARA ALEXIS VARNES (nee GORKOFF) January 17, 1962 - May 6, 2016 Tammy Varnes, 54, of Winnipeg, died peacefully May 6 after a long, courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by the love of her friends and family. Tammy was born January 17, 1962 and was predeceased by her parents, Roy and Ethel Gorkoff, who she now joins in Heaven. She will be greatly missed by her children, Rhonda (Jason) and Matthew, her lifelong friend Rick (Ron, Eileen and Sigrid), and her siblings Rick (Freda: Ricky and Tracey), Pat (Kenny and David) and Kelly (Greg: Gabrielle and Mara), along with her many other nieces, nephews (Scott, Chris), cousins, aunts and numerous friends. As a gregarious and spirited person, Tammy's youth was spent playing sports (a back catcher on many baseball teams and curling at the Fort Rouge) and travelling across the country on fond family camping trips. Madge Lake was a special place, where she forged bonds with siblings and extended family having countless adventures. On long walks and canoeing, Tammy found solace in nature. There were two things Tammy had always wanted in her life: to be a mother and to be a teacher; at both she was exceptional. After graduating from Education at University of Manitoba, she had a 32 year career with Winnipeg School Division at many schools (including Donnelly Sunday School), where she met many friends and influenced the lives of countless children. Her proudest accomplishments were her two children Rhonda and Matthew. She was always their biggest fan at their many athletic endeavours. She'd often be seen - and heard - cheering loudly at Matt's baseball, lacrosse and hockey games and would frequently fly to Ottawa to visit Rhonda and take in a curling game. It was not always about the games though, as Tammy appreciated the simple moments - a movie night with her kids, baking with family, and a home-cooked meal together; she especially loved celebrating Easter and Christmas, when she opened her home to all family and friends. Like Tammy's heart, her house was always open to her children's friends. Her home was the place friends would gather for food, wine and laughter day and night. It was not uncommon for her kids to wake her up to chat upon returning home in the wee, small hours. Her kindheartedness will be greatly missed. A celebration of Tammy's life will be held on Sunday, May 15 at 1:00 p.m. at Harrow United Church, 955 Mulvey Avenue, Winnipeg. Special thanks to the Carson family for their love and care. Thanks to the amazing staff at CancerCare Manitoba at Victoria Hospital and to St. Boniface Palliative staff, who made her last days so special, and to Dr. Park who she always felt gave her the gift of a prolonged life. In lieu of flowers, please donate to CancerCare Manitoba. THOMSON "IN THE PARK" 204-925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com
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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 11, 2016
Condolences & Memories (8 entries)
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I had many opportunities to work with Tammy in her classrooms (Grosvenor and Earl Grey). She always had a big smile on her when I walked in. She had a great sense of humour and absolutely loved the kids she worked with! One of the things I remember most is her extreme pride in her own children, she always had a story to share! I last saw her at the Victoria hospital and my heart sank when she told me what was going on...she did say she would fight hard which I already knew...rest in peace my friend....my thoughts are with you and your family... - Posted by: Linda Renton (WSD co worker) on: May 16, 2016
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My thoughts and prayers are with Rhonda and Matthew at this difficult time. Your mom was so proud of you both. Take Care. Ms. Williams Rebeck - Posted by: Ricki Williams Rebeck (teacher) on: May 16, 2016
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I had the good fortune of meeting Tammy at George V School and have kept in touch over the past years. I will forever cherish the visit we had the last week of April. She was definitely a fighter. Her inner strength, acceptance, and determination were admirable. She will be missed by many. My most sincere condolences to her son and daughter. May you find comfort in knowing that you were very special to her. Hold on to all the fond memories. With sympathy, Jocelyne Jaremowich - Posted by: Jocelyne Jaremowich (friend and former colleague) on: May 12, 2016
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Rest in Peace Tammy! I'll always remember your kindness as I stated my teaching journey...you were always there to brighten my day. Prayers to your family during this difficult time. - Posted by: Kim kirk (Friend from Earl Grey School) on: May 12, 2016
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I had the good fortune to work with Tammy at Grosvenor School. Tammy was a gifted, talented and dedicated teacher. Staff, parents and, of course, the students loved and respected her. She was the nursery teacher and gave her little students a wonderful introduction to their education. Tammy was a kind, generous and supportive person who enriched the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. - Posted by: Helen Strock (Colleague) on: May 12, 2016
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We're so sorry to hear of Tammy's passing, she was always friendly and greeted you with a big smile. Tammy was an integral part of the boys baseball teams. Our condolences to Mat, his sister and the rest of the family. Garry, Sharon and Dylan Pospishell - Posted by: Garry, Sharon and Dylan Pospishell (Kids' Baseball ) on: May 12, 2016
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On behalf of the Churchill High School Class of '80, and other friends from CHS, we are so very sorry and offer our condolences. Many of us have wonderful memories of Tammy from years gone by. Her family are in our thoughts. - Posted by: Churchill High Alumni (Friends) on: May 12, 2016
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I will miss you my dear friend...your laughter, love and the positive outlook you instilled in life. Rhonda and Matt, my heart aches along with yours, you will never be alone Hugs and kisses Cheryl - Posted by: Cheryl Anderson () on: May 11, 2016

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