Thursday, November 14, 2019
I was saddened to hear of the passing of one of my bestest/favorite Aunts, Aunt MaryAnn (And here i always thought her name was spelled Marianne lol). How can one possibly put a lifetime of memories into a nutshell?! I have quite a few fond memories of this awesome lady, some i'm sure i've forgotten, but one thing I will never forget is her cheerful disposition, her love of God and how she cared for people. Having grown up spending quite a bit of time with my cousin Steve, her eldest son, there were numerous opportunities to be around her, which was always a joy, as she was so welcoming and accepting - i felt so loved. My wife Val, also, can surely attest to that loving acceptance from the first time she met her. :)
One memory i will share is when my older brother, myself, and Steve were attending the same school and a "hay-ride" event had been planned by the school (yes i'm absolutely dating myself here!). We were able to stay after classes for that and i remember Aunt MaryAnn, picking us up after school with their old pickup (and we were allowed to ride in the box!), dropping us off at the "ride" site, and later picking us up. Not only that, but she also took the time to bring us all back to her home and served us hungry young boys some refreshing snacks. And, as if that wasn't enough, she also took my brother Ray and myself all the way back to our home in New Bothwell that night! Even as a 12 year old at that time i remember thinking, "I'm sure she had already had a long tiring day, yet here she was, happy, chatting us up, and laughing all the way", - I was amazed and have often reflected on that event. There were also several times later in life where our paths would cross and she was still the same - her joy, zest for life, and love for her Lord, i never saw waver. She will be dearly missed by many, including me - that I'm sure of - and she will always hold a special place in my heart.
Our most heartfelt condolences, and may the comforting arms of our Jesus, who's loving care never waivers, envelope you all at this time and always.
Lloyd & Val Neufeld
