Gloria Jean Kowalchuk (nee Simcoe)

February 5, 1941 – November 28, 2021 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce that on November 28, 2021, at the age of 80, Heaven has received its newest angel – our dear Mother, the matriarch of our family.
Although Mom’s health had declined over the last few years, she faced each new day with strength and a smile to brighten the day.

After a brief stay at St. Boniface Hospital, she knew it was her time, and passed away peacefully, with family by her side.

She has journeyed to the Heavens to reunite with Bill, her loving husband of 49 years, parents Francis and Peter Simcoe, and siblings Violet, Shirley, Richard, and Clifford.

Those left behind to ponder the mystery and cherish the memories are sons Darcy (Kim), Daniel (Brenda), daughter Theresa (Bruce), grandchildren Breanna, Carly (Troy), Shaelynn (Dylan), Brandon, Danielle, Nicholas, Zachary, and numerous extended family and friends.

Mom, the eldest of seven children, was born on McKenzie Island, Ontario. The family moved to Lac Du Bonnet, and when she was ready to join the workforce, she moved to Winnipeg. Over the years, she worked for Monarch Ware, The Bay, and as a homemaker, but was most proud of being the Avon lady for over 20 years. This allowed her to meet new people on a regular basis, get her exercise, and kept her updated on all of the latest gossip.
Her loves included her family, playing cards, bingo, games of all kinds, gardening, bowling, “donating” to Club Regent Casino, knitting, reading, crossword puzzles, curling, crafts of all kinds, coloring, cooking for the family, hosting family events, collecting angels, Charlie Pride and Elvis. She loved to dance with Dad at Crabby Steve’s and at family celebrations. They made the Jive and Polka look effortless.

Mom was famous for speaking her mind to anyone who would listen and loved to socialize with people. If Mom said we were going for a walk, we always knew to bring a snack, as it always took longer then we planned. She wasn’t great at directions, but not to worry, somebody always found it in their heart to set her straight.

She loved to travel and spend time in Mexico, Las Vegas, and the Dominican. It was Hawaii though, that kept calling her back, for a total of 29 times.

Mom could often be seen shovelling snow even as it fell, making certain the driveway was clear. Many children donated, by accident, to her frisbee pole at Miami Beach, where she camped for over 50 years and had appointed herself as the Mayor. She rightfully earned the title of the Queen of the Beanbag tournaments.

Mom had a heart of gold and would donate stuffed animals to the Christmas Cheer Board and every year, would knit hundred of hats, scarves, and mitts, which we would drop off at the church or fire station.

Mom was the kindest person to have walked the earth. She was appreciated for her loyalty, humour, guidance, and her unwavering love for Dad.

While we were growing up, she was strict but fair. She taught us values, showed us strength and compassion, and always extended her love to those around her.

She will be dearly missed and has left countless memories for us all to cherish in our hearts. Each of us love and owe you so much Mom. We are all better people for having had the privilege of sharing the times and joys of your life. May we live in your absence in ways that would make you continue to want to claim us.
A special thank you to the staff at St. Boniface Hospital for their support.

Per Mom’s wishes, respectfully, there will not be a formal service. A private celebration of life will be held by the family in Spring. Mom will be reunited with Dad at Glen Lawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Lung Association.

The Journey of a Mother

A mother is more than a memory. She is a living presence. Your mother is always with you. She’s the whisper of the leaves as you walk down the street, she’s the smell of certain foods you remember, perfume that she wore. She’s the cool hand on your brow when you’re not feeling well, she’s your breath in the air on a cold winter’s day. She is the sound of the rain that lulls you to sleep, the colors of a rainbow, she is Christmas morning.

Your Mother lives inside your laughter. She’s crystalized in every tear drop. A Mother displays every emotion… happiness, sadness, fear, jealousy, love, hate, anger, helplessness, excitement, joy, sorrow… and all the while, hoping and praying you will only know the good feelings in life.

She’s the place you came from, your first home, and she’s the map you follow with every step you take.
She’s your first love, your first friend, even your first enemy, but nothing on earth can separate you.
Not time, not space… not even death.

“Amazing Grace… I once was lost, but now I’m found.”