VORDIS ODDLEIFSON

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VORDIS ODDLEIFSON

With deep sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Vordis Oddleifson, on April 26, 2019, at the age of 95.
Vordis is survived by her children, Karen Foster, Enid Oddleifson, Kathy Finnson and Kevin Oddleifson; her grandchildren, Kelly Bedard (Dan), Kendra Mitchell-Foster (Sheona), Alanna Finnson (Adam), Eric Lafond, Cole Finnson (Mallory) and Gaetane Lafond; great-grandchildren, Kira and Jake Bedard, Zen and Jai Finnson, Destiny, Amilie and Jaiden Mitchell-Foster, Halldor and Thea Finnson; sisters-in-law, Grace Fridfinnson and Norma Fridfinnson; numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. She was predeceased by her husband Einar Oddleifson; her parents, Kristmundur and Jakobina Fridfinnson; her brothers, Leifur, Numi (and wife Dora), Kjartan (and wife Lillian) Skapti and Junius; sons-in-law, Guy Lafond and Grant Finnson; and in-laws, Siggi and Lolla Oddleifson, Thorey Fjeldsted (and husband Asgier) and Sammy Oddleifson (and wife Norma).
Vordis was born May 18, 1923 on her parents' farm in the Geysir district, the eldest of six children. She always spoke fondly of her family and her life on the farm – working alongside her parents, brothers and hired hands – milking cows and doing farm and household chores. She enjoyed the culture and spirit of the Geysir community, the Icelandic language, playing with neighbouring children and attending the Island School.
As a young woman, her adventurous spirit led her to the University of Manitoba where she obtained an Honours Degree in Philosophy. She was later employed by the government in Ottawa, taught at the Island School and worked for the Manitoba Federation of Agriculture, travelling to rural Manitoba communities to co-facilitate the Folk School program for young adults. Vordis was an intelligent, educated and accomplished woman who loved the rural life.
She married Einar Oddleifson October 22, 1949 and together they worked their farm and raised four children. Vordis was a loving and devoted wife and mother who handled the many activities of homemaking with skill and enthusiasm. She was a wonderful cook, seamstress and gardener, and provided a happy, relaxed home environment for her family. She enriched our lives through her appreciation of literature and education, and her love of nature. Vordis actively served her community, as a member of the Hospital Board, PTA, Unitarian Church School and Ladies' Aid. She was a sought-after speaker throughout her life, giving toasts and readings at weddings, showers and memorial services.
Mom valued individuality and saw the good in everyone. She had a deep affection for her relatives and close friends – her brothers and their families held a special place in her heart. She valued simplicity; lived with dignity, presence and reverence for life. She possessed a calm vitality, an earthy acceptance of "what is", and a rich sense of humour. Mom amazed us with her ability to quote verses of poetry that had inspired her throughout her life. She was a whiz at crossword puzzles and enjoyed Scrabble, rarely losing a game. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her tremendous joy. They loved her, appreciating her nurturing presence and homemade oatmeal cookies.
Mom was our rock, a constant source of strength, inspiration and loving kindness. She lived her life with grace and equanimity and left the world a better place.
Sincere thanks to the wonderful Dr. Donnelly, and the excellent staff of the Arborg Personal Care Home, Arborg Memorial Hospital, Riverton Supportive Housing, Arborg Seniors Directorate and Home Care Services, who provided care to her over the last two years.
As per Vordis' request, a private family funeral will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Arborg & District Ladies Health Auxiliary, P.O. Box 301, Arborg, MB R0C 0A0 or a charity of one's choice.

Mom, Amma, Lang Amma,
we love you and miss you.
Goda Nott Elskan.

My Symphony
To live content with small means,
to seek elegance rather than luxury,
and refinement rather than fashion;
to be worthy, not respectable,
and wealthy, not rich;.

to study hard, think quietly,
talk gently, act frankly;
to listen to stars and birds,
to babes and sages with open hearts,
to bear all cheerfully, do all bravely,
await occasions, hurry never;

in a word, to let the spiritual,
unbidden and unconscious,
grow up through the common;

this is to be my symphony.

- William Ellery Channing

NEIL BARDAL
FUNERAL CENTRE
204-949-2200
neilbardalinc.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 04, 2019