MYRNA EVELYN DRAM

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MYRNA EVELYN DRAM

(nee BULL)

Myrna Evelyn Dram (nee Bull) beloved mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and friend, peacefully passed away on May 11, 2024, at Grace Hospital. Born on April 29, 1941, in Austin, Manitoba, Myrna was a beacon of strength, love, and unwavering determination.

Myrna cherished her role as a loving wife to her best friend and husband, George, who passed away in 2001. She was a devoted mother to four children: Kim Loeb (and her children, Evan and Liam), Richard Dram (with his wife Shauna and their children, Chelsea, Zachary, and Cassie), Mark Dram (with his wife Wendy), and Stevi Dram (with her child Tye). Myrna’s love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in their accomplishments, considering them her greatest achievement. Additionally, she adored her great-grandchildren, Vienna and Luca.

Myrna’s journey began on a farm outside of Austin, Manitoba, where she was the eldest of ten children born to George and Edna Bull, Fern (Ken), Linda (Ron), Barb (preceded by husband Denny), Tom, Len (Brenda), Noreen (Clarke), Lorri (Harry), Joanne (Doug), David (Linda). Her upbringing instilled in her a sense of adventure and resilience, qualities that would shape her remarkable life.

At the age of 17, adventurous and confident, Myrna left her rural roots to pursue her passion for education, teaching in the remote northern Manitoba town of Wabowden, Manitoba. Leaving farm life in southern Manitoba behind, she embarked on a 24-hour train trek to the small, isolated town. Despite the distance, and lack of running water, roads and all the comforts she was used to, she was undeterred. Within a few months of arriving in Wabowden, she met the first love of her life, George Dram. Their union marked the beginning of her northern life, a chapter she cherished deeply. The north, and particularly the people of Wabowden, held a special place in her heart.

Myrna’s community commitment went beyond the norm. In the late 1970s, she found her second passion with the Wabowden Ice Cream Parlour. Dedicated to creating a top-notch local gathering spot, she poured her heart into the business, striving for excellence. As both boss and host, she thrived, building strong relationships with her team, lovingly dubbed “her girls”. The parlour became a beloved hub, echoing Myrna’s dedication to community enrichment.

In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavours, Myrna played a vital role in her husband’s businesses, including Cross Lake Air Service, Utik Lake Lodge and Bear Lake Lodge, fly-in fishing lodges. Her sharp intellect, business acumen, and tireless work ethic were instrumental in their success.

Myrna’s devotion to her family was unwavering. As a mother, she poured her heart into nurturing her four children, along with their respective families. Her love knew no bounds, and she took immense pride in their achievements, considering them her greatest joy. Additionally, her role as a grandmother brought her endless happiness. Myrna’s caring nature and steadfast support provided her children and grandchildren with a source of comfort and stability throughout their lives.

She was also deeply involved in her community, never shying away from committee work or volunteer opportunities. Whether supporting minor hockey in Wabowden, contributing to the Busy Bees, or participating in her Anglican Church groups, Myrna’s commitment to service was unwavering.

Myrna’s passions extended beyond business and family; the third love of her life had to be horseracing! An avid horseperson, she owned many racehorses throughout her life. Her long-time friends and trainers, Jack and Gloria Robertson, worked closely with her on this passion, becoming like family. Myrna found immense joy spending time at the Robertson’s farm, which she considered her happy place. Myrna also travelled extensively, visiting numerous famous racetracks throughout the U.S.

In reflection, Myrna was a remarkable woman known for her strength, determination, and unwavering generosity. Her passion for sports, especially the Jets, was unmatched; she listened to their games on the radio even before television service reached Wabowden. Despite her fierce nature, Myrna was profoundly compassionate, always offering a helping hand to those in need. Her passing leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and boundless compassion, which will be forever cherished by those she touched.

A celebration of Myrna’s life will be held at the Assiniboia Downs on June 22, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant a flower in memory of Myrna.

Myrna’s indomitable spirit lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

Clarke’s Funeral Home Gladstone/MacGregor

www.clarkesfuneralhome.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 18, 2024, May 18, 2024