DOLORES JANE CAIRNS (BLANKENSHIP)

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DOLORES JANE CAIRNS (nee BLANKENSHIP) It is with great sadness that the family of Dolores (Tyke) Jane Cairns announces her passing on June 25, 2018 at the age of 92. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Catherine, Dona (Terry), Tara, and her grandchildren, Shamus, Thomas, Casey, William, Chloe and Tessa. She was predeceased by her husband William (Don) Cairns and brother Bill Blankenship. Tyke was born in Chicago, Illinois April 15, 1926 to Kay and Bill Blankenship. In her childhood, her family divided their time between Chicago and Roanoke, Virginia. When she was 12 years old, her family purchased Brown's Cabins and General Store at Brereton Lake in the Whiteshell. Tyke spent every summer helping her family run the business. Her time at the lake were some of her fondest memories. In the fall she would return to Winnipeg to attend school. She met her husband Don Cairns in Winnipeg and in 1946 they married and eventually settled in East Kildonan. In 1958 they built their home on Larchdale Crescent and raised three daughters. Tyke continued to spend time at Brereton Lake when she could. Tyke took an interest in yoga and eventually became a yoga teacher and spent over 25 years teaching various yoga classes. In 1977 Tyke and Don purchased a cabin near Kenora where they spent some of their retirement years. This also allowed her to live near her dear friend, Betty Tresoor. Over the years Tyke adopted many dogs and they all held a special place in her heart. She loved reading, studying Eastern Philosophy, stimulating conversations and a good party, especially her "girls" parties. Mom loved fine fashion and was always excited to find a good bargain at the Red Pencil Room in Eatons. She was known for her excellent culinary skills. Her daughters have fond memories of all the "health" food she insisted the household eat, making her own yogurt, growing bean sprouts on the kitchen counter, and whole wheat cookies with carob chips. Many of her passions such as her love of books, exploring new cuisines, compassion for animals, thought-provoking movies, and the appreciation of nature have been passed down to her daughters. Tyke loved humour and had the best laugh. She was fiercely independent and didn't always follow the rules for women of her time. In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family gathering will take place at a later date. The family would like to thank the staff at River East Personal Care Home for the great care they provided in her last years. In kindness, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba or an animal rescue shelter of your choice. "I'll lay me down and bleed awhile, then rise and fight again." For online condolences or to light a memorial candle please log onto www.mosaicfunerals.ca 1839 Inkster Blvd. 1006 Nairn Ave. 204-275-5555

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 07, 2018