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DONNA-MAE ARNASON
Born: Oct 17, 1935
Date of Passing: May 28, 2017
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryDONNA-MAE ARNASON (nee EINARSON) October 17, 1935 - May 28, 2017 On May 28, Mum (aka Amma), the Queen of practical jokes, wildly inappropriate comments, and hilarious old stories, left us to join Dad. She was predeceased by her husband, Willie, children, Tracy, Brad, and Jill, granddaughter Amy along with her parents, Einar and Violet. She leaves behind her son-in-law Karl, Arni (Cheryl), Elly (Jason), Willie (Connie), daughter-in-law Christine, Jeff (Lindsey), Lindsay (Wade), Jesse (Devon), daughter Christy (Don), Cassie (Adam), Taylor (Sheldon), Sam (Scotia), son-in-law Dave (Kim), Indiana, daughter Jodi (Mike) and Piper, as well as six great-grandchildren. She was born and raised in Gimli, the sole daughter of a fisherman and the mayor of the town. At a very early age, because of a special pup named Speckles, she developed her profound love for animals. She also loved daily visits with her grandmother who regularly tried to feed her even when she was not hungry. If Mom declined the offer, Grandma said "Fine then....have nothing!" This saying is still used in our family to date. Not only did Donna-Mae have a great sense of humour, she also was incredibly intelligent. She graduated at the top of her high school class, and was bestowed the honour of Valedictorian, as well as receiving the Governor General's Award. Following her high school graduation, she continued her education, becoming a registered nurse in 1957. Within that same year, she went on to marry the love of her life, Willie, and together they raised their five children. She was Willie's biggest supporter, went above and beyond the call of duty, and chose to stay at home to raise her family. Her kids will cherish the memories of daily hot lunches and the love and affection she was so quick to give. As her own kids grew up, she became "Amma", and her grandchildren became her ultimate pride and joy. There was never an empty counter top, nor a hungry mouth in sight due to her passion for baking. Donna-Mae and Willie cherished the days spent together and as life would have it, with only a mere seven days apart, Willie was eagerly waiting with arms wide open for his one and only. "She was one of the rare ones, so effortlessly herself, and the world loved her for it" - Atticus The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude for all the wonderful care Donna-Mae received at Betel Home Foundation. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gimli Humane Society, 33 Harvard Avenue, Gimli Industrial Park, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0. At Mom's request, no formal service will be held. A celebration of life will take place at a later date. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 neilbardalinc.com
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 03, 2017
Condolences & Memories (5 entries)
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Our thoughts and prayers to Christy, Donnie and the Arnasons and extended family. You are in our hearts during this difficult time on the loss of your beloved mother. - Posted by: Debbie and Rick Buskell (Friends of Christy) on: Jun 20, 2017
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I met the Arnason clan over 50 years ago, through my husband, Bob Wood, and his younger sisters Sandy and Kathy. Donna-Mae was a close and supportive friend and neighbor to my mother-in-law Audrey Wood. As a youngster I could attest to how full of mischief Donna-Mae was. Willy had transported a whole bunch of us kids for a trail ride to Birds Hill stables. We came back from the ride hot, sweaty and smelling of horse. I don't remember how it got started but some mischievous Dad (Willie) had the hose and he was spraying us kids. The tables turned and the kids had the hose. Willy ran for cover into the house. I was flabbergasted that a parent would give permission to retaliate with a garden hose in the middle of the living room. That was in their home on Bannerman Avenue and the first time I met them. We offered to clean up, but Donna-Mae said no. I think Willie might have had to help with that. We were fortunate to visit Willow Island for sleep overs to enjoy the beach and our friends company. They were very generous to their children's friends. All of us kids either had family or moved away but we have stayed connected. Donna-Mae and Willie were both wonderful people who brought a lot to the community. I always feel I have had a positive experience when I have been in their company. Donna-Mae's sharp wit and Willy's tales left me smiling. The easy going parenting style was a positive influence for me when it came to parenting later on. I learned that it was o k to make a mess, and have adventures. Freedom developed resourcefulness and confidence. Their values live on in their family and each and everyone of us who have been lucky enough to know them. They will be missed but I take comfort they are together. Cathy Wood - Posted by: Cathy Wood (Family friend) on: Jun 05, 2017
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I met Donna Mae when she was my room mate when living in the nurses residence during our three years of nurses training. We were often very mischevious and thank goodness we never got caught by the house mother. We were the best of friends and shared an apartment together for a short time following our graduation. I will be forever grateful that she taught me how to cook liver properly. [so will Jug] My life was all the richer for having known her. Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time and know they will have many years of happy memories to help sustain them at this time. - Posted by: Beverley & George Glenday ( Friends) on: Jun 03, 2017
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Christy, Don & families, So sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad and then your Mom so soon after. May you have comfort in knowing they are together and happy. You have my deepest sympathy in this trying time. Take care of yourselves. - Posted by: Wendy Olson (Friend of Christy and Don) on: Jun 03, 2017
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I met Donna Mae when she started to order Avon from me a number of years back. At the time I sold Avon, I literally had hundreds of customers, but Donna Mae was one of my favorites! She was truly a gem and I used to look forward on my route to stopping and delivering her parcel and having a chat. She will be missed! - Posted by: Cheryl Zelenitsky (Friend and Avon Lady) on: Jun 03, 2017
