KATHLEEN MARY (KAY) POWELL (WELSH)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

KATHLEEN MARY (KAY) POWELL
(nee WELSH)

Our family experienced the end of an era when our mother, grandmother and great-grandmother passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on July 28, 2021.
Kay was born January 1, 1919, in Winnipeg, the third child of Samuel and Emily Welsh. Kay was predeceased by her husband Robert Howard (Bob) Powell in 1994, and by her siblings, Marion Lord, Howard Welsh and Ted Welsh, and her sister-in-law Catherine Powell.
Kay is survived by her loving family, her son Bill Powell (Shelagh), grandson Jeff Powell (Rebecca), great-granddaughters, Niki and Sam Powell; her daughter Ruth Young (John Ritchie), granddaughter Ainsley Young (Gary Vandal) and grandson Spencer Young.
Kay was a strong, independent person, with a quick wit and wonderful sense of humour. Strong willed and principled, her life of 102 years was remarkably full of experiences, adventures, fun, and, of course, family. Beloved by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Kay decided to give herself the moniker "SAG", our "Sweet Adorable Grandma". Every correspondence we ever received from her was signed "SAG", we always appreciated her sense of humour, and we basked in her unconditional love. A life long learner and self-taught educator, she played a foundational role in all of our lives. Through word, board and card games, books, fun adventures, scavenger hunts, and humour-filled poems and stories, she instilled in us the important values of kindness, compassion, and a commitment to be of service to others.
She will be so missed, but we are grateful she lived a long, loving, and full life.
A long time member of Westworth United Church, she was extremely active in the church community that was an integral part of her life for over 60 years. In her capacity as a lifelong volunteer, Kay worked with young ESL students in Winnipeg schools, helped at the CNIB, and received awards well into her 90s for her prodigious knitting of hats, scarves, and mittens for local charities. Bob and Kay were keen curlers, dancers and travellers, and enjoyed many summers with family and friends at their Gull Lake cottage.
In later years, Kay enjoyed her life at The Wellington, reconnecting with many friends, making new ones, and participating in a variety of activities. An avid reader, she enjoyed her Book Club, attending Canadian Club events, and was an enthusiastic participant in aquacise and pilates until her late 90s. Our heartfelt appreciation to the caring staff and team at The Wellington for all the wonderful years Kay spent there. Sincere thanks also to the staff at West Park Manor where Kay spent her last few months.
At Kay's request no funeral service will occur. A private family service will take place at a later date.
Flowers gratefully declined. What would be most appreciated by Kay is committing a small act of kindness, in her words "a good deed".

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

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 07, 2021