VILMA MAXINE HELGA SIEMENS

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VILMA MAXINE HELGA SIEMENS (nee SWANSON) Surrounded by the love of her family, Maxine Helga Siemens passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Thursday, August 18, 2016 at the Grace Hospital in Winnipeg. Left to cherish her memory are Harold, her beloved husband of 57 years; daughters, Alayna (Geoff) Gelley, and Brenda Coates; grandchildren, Reese Gelley, Evan and Stacy Coates; brothers, Floyd, Marvin (Sydney) and families; sister Doreen (Gary) Peaker and family; brother-in-law Walter (Irene) Siemens and family; and numerous cousins. She was predeceased by her parents Harry and Bertha Swanson, and sister-in-law Viola Swanson. Maxine Helga was born in October, 1937 in Riverton, MB. After completing high school, she attended Normal School and obtained her teaching certificate. Maxine taught for almost 35 years, mainly in the St. James School Division. While teaching and raising a family, she continued to further her education by obtaining a BA, BEd., and her Pre-Master's degree in education. Maxine had a lifelong love for learning, music, and books. She was a skilled vocalist and musician, an avid reader and book club member, and in retirement became an astute duplicate bridge player. She was also an excellent cook and loved to bake for family and others. Maxine was strongly connected to her Icelandic/Swedish heritage, and the highlight of her travels was a trip to Iceland with her husband, sister and brother-in-law, where she traced her family tree and visited the village where her mother was born. As a long-time member of Messiah Lutheran Church, Maxine had a quiet but profound faith. She believed that each and every one of us has been given a talent. It is God's gift to us. Using that talent to help others is our gift to God. Maxine valued her family and many friends, and will be truly missed by all those whose hearts and souls she touched. She had tremendous inner strength, and was a selfless, compassionate, and elegant lady. Thank you to Dr. S. Bhangoo and the nurses and staff of Grace Hospital for their excellent and compassionate care of Maxine. Cremation has taken place. A memorial service was held at Messiah Lutheran Church on Sunday, August 21, 2016 with Pastor Carol Janke presiding. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Lutheran Urban Ministry or Agape Table for Kids, for Maxine cared for the poor and hungry, especially children. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE (204) 949-2200 Neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 27, 2016