THELMA MARY JOSEPHINE RUPERT

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

THELMA MARY JOSEPHINE RUPERT (nee THOMAS) August 13, 1932 - March 12, 2017 Thelma, of Traverse Bay, MB, passed away peacefully, with her daughter Anne and her sister Adele by her side, at St. Boniface Hospital on Sunday, March 12, 2017. Daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, great great-grandmother, Thelma left a legacy of love, prayer, forgiveness and a determined will to live life on her own terms. Survived by her daughter Anne (Erling, d.2012); son Wallace (Sandy d.2014); grandchildren, Erika Milligan (Ken), Erik (Rebecca), Seth (Steffie), Jennifer (Vern), Joel (Shannon), and Jordan; 12 great-grandchildren; one great great-grandchild. All of her grandchildren were the source of great joyfulness for her. She is also survived by her sister Adele Duff (Dennis d.1986); brothers, Roy Thomas (Sylvia), Simon-Joseph and numerous nieces and nephews from the Hourie, Eyolfson and Thomas families. Predeceased by her husband Blake (1982); her 'spirit' son Murray (2015); her father and mother Joseph and Maud; her brother George; her sisters, Frances, Theresa, Helen and Connie. Thelma was a helper and a protector. She was always available to lend an ear or a helping hand to those in need. She was a foster parent for 15 plus years, caring for numerous children whom she protected, loved and cherished with her generous heart, always delivered with a kindness of spirit to their bio families. She was fiercely proud and protective of her Cree/Metis heritage and taught her children to be so. Deeply spiritual, she practiced her beliefs not only in the Catholic Church but also in Sundance Ceremonies at Sakgeeng. Thelma could be found cutting down trees on her property in Traverse Bay, splitting wood, baking bread, teaching her grandchildren to make bannock, reading through her extensive library or at peace in quiet contemplation and prayer.the source of her strength and determination. There is deep sadness throughout her family and community at her passing, but also a joyful realization that she is reunited with those she loved who went before her. The family would like to express their deep appreciation and gratitude for the staff at St. Boniface Hospital for their gentle and compassionate care in her final hours, and to all her friends and family who enriched her life with their love, helping hands and friendship. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Marguerite Roman Catholic Church in Traverse Bay, MB on Friday, March 17, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Feast to follow. Condolences may be left at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 16, 2017