REID, ALMA
Alma, 95 years young, passed peacefully away in her sleep on Wednesday, June 9th, 2010. She was predeceased by her husband Ernie in 1976, and her dear friend David Watson in 2000. Loving mother of Shirley (deceased 1972), Yvonne (Richard), Donna (David), Betty (Monty),
Pat (Hugh deceased 2009), Doug (Lynn) and Mary (Tom). Fondly remembered by sisters Wilma, Helen, and brother Anthony. She was predeceased by eight brothers and sisters. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews and their families, and by her friend Will Dwyer.
Alma was a cherished and loving grandmother to 18 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
She was born at her parent’s family farm on December 15, 1914 near the small village of Formosa Ontario. Raised in a German Catholic community consisting mainly of farmers she knew all about hard work and carried this work ethic throughout her life, never letting her age stop her.
Alma and Ernie were married in 1940, and together they had 7 children while moving frequently between military bases. When dad retired from the military they settled in Barrie in 1964. Mom’s faith in God helped sustain her through the deaths of her husband, daughter, and grandson .
She became actively involved with Parkview Seniors Centre, playing Euchre and learning to square dance. She found her passion in square dancing and continued until she was almost 90, entertaining at the local seniors homes. She also loved gardening, and was actively planning her gardens for this summer. Her pies were devoured by her family and she continued to bake until she was hospitalized three weeks ago.
Mom was a volunteer at Grove Park Home, Canadian Blood Services and has a member of the Catholic Women’s League for 40 years.
Alma’s quick wit, sense of humor, passion for life, and her capricious smile will always be a favorite part of our memories of her. Friends may call the STECKLEY-GOODERHAM FUNERAL HOME, 30 Worsley Street, Barrie, on Sunday June 13, 2010 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church on Monday, June 14, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. Interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Funeral services entrusted to St. Mary’s Church. If desired donations to St. Vincent de Paul would be appreciated by the family. Condolences may be forwarded to www.steckleygooderham.com.