With heavy hearts, we announce Marnie’s passing on April 19, 2018, supported by loving family and caring staff at the Grey Nuns hospital. Marnie was born in Edmonton to Lola Carlson, predeceased by her brother Randy and survived by husband Ron, wonderful sisters Lola (Brian) and Marylyn (late Don) who called her Penny, and loyal daughters Tracey (Eugene) and Laurie (Jeff). Marnie and Ron met on a double-date in 1965, fell in love, and were married the following year. Marnie’s career included office work in areas of finance and personnel before dedicating herself to raising her children on an acreage in south Edmonton while Ron served the community through the fire department.
Marnie was always busy with a variety of interests and pursuits. She had her daughters involved in music and the arts, she also volunteered through school and Girl Guides. She returned to work at Tempo school, where her daughters attended, expanding her intellectual interests and broadening her world through getting to know people of diverse faiths and extraordinary education.
Marnie was inspired by knowledge and motivated to be excellent at whatever she did. She began her own business in the 80’s, Abba Lane Flowers which later changed to Florist on Fourth and finally, Flowers Your Way. As a florist she and her staff won awards at the Festival of Trees and the shops themselves were a hub of busy activity. She took pride in helping others during their crowning achievements, family celebrations, and their times of need. As a florist, she was both artist and counsellor.
Grandchildren were a special joy to Marnie, Lyndon (26) (Taryn), Mitchell (21) (Kierra) and Cassie (8). She enjoyed a high level of involvement and strong bond with all three of them. Marnie and Ron travelled to several different places together including Australia and New Zealand, Costa Rica and Tahiti, making many friends. Her last trip she travelled with Tracey to see Lyndon and Taryn in Cyprus via London, England.
Marnie leaves a legacy of befriending and loving others from many walks of life, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or personal philosophy. Her friends were diverse, and she had a special way of understanding other people. Marnie’s kindness and compassion will not be easily forgotten, and she will be sadly missed.
A Viewing on Sunday April 22 from 3:00-4:00 at Serenity South Side, 5311 91 Street NW, Edmonton. A Graveside Memorial 11:00 am on Monday, April 23 at Peace Cemetery Devon, Range Road 262, Calmar, Alberta, Celebration of Life to follow at the family home 132 Windermere Crescent NW, Edmonton.
Tribute wall - a place to share your memories and condolences
Patricia St Jean
It is with heavy heart that I try and express my deep sorrow for the loss of my wonderful Auntie, mentor and friend. Big alligator tears, sadness and still an acceptance that sometime all will be made new and we will see her again. Thoughts and prayers are with you my Uncle Ron & to everyone feeling this deep loss
Dan & Bonnie Baird
To Ron Frerichs anf Family.
It is with sadness that Bonnie & I learned of Marnies passing. Unfortunately we have not seen each other recently, and are unable to attend the service, but know we are thinking of you at this time.
Sincerely Dan and Bonnie Baird