Obituary of FLORENCE AUDREY MARIE HUGHES

It is with deep sorrow that the family announces the unexpected passing of Florence Audrey Marie Hughes (nee Zaharia). Florence passed at Donwood Manor in Winnipeg on January 4, 2025, shortly after her 95 birthday. She had lived most of her life in Transcona, MB.

She will be sadly missed by her loving family, son Don Zaharia (Rachel), grandchildren Sarah and Taylor, brother Gary Hughes (Mary van Gaal) of Fredericton NB, brother-in-law Ted Sayer of Edmonton AB, numerous nieces and nephews across Canada as well as son-in-law Steve Dennis. Florence was predeceased by her parents, Herbert and Mary Hughes, brothers Chuck, Earl, Herb and Harold, sister Pat Sayer, daughter Lori Dennis, daughter-in-law Joyce Zaharia and ex-husband Donald E Zaharia.

Until recently, Florence wore her wedding ring, mother Mary’s wedding ring and the ring Donald gave her at the age of 17. She possessed a heart filled with love, enjoying many experiences building a lifetime of memories. Her 95 Birthday was celebrated with her son Don, nephew Alf and FaceTime with brother Gary, Mary and Toni, granddaughter Sarah, nephew Greg and Gloria, nieces Merrilee and Karen, along with cards from loved ones. She reveled in the day.  

Florence enjoyed talking about her childhood growing up in their humble home at the Transcona pump station with 6 siblings, a cat and dog. Pets were a big part of her life. Her attention to detail and meticulous notes were astonishing. She claimed it was likely the result of constantly organizing things as a child in that small home. From an early age, Florence was up for adventure. She loved and lived life to the fullest. She drove for the first time at age 12 sending her mom and neighbors into a panic.

Florence married her high school sweetheart Donald in 1950 at age 21 and enjoyed 27 active and wonderful years together. In 1965, they installed the first inground swimming pool in Transcona that was enjoyed by many friends and family. Florence loved the outdoors and in 1966 purchased the Jones’s remote cottage at Rice Lake, ON. Many summer holidays and weekends were spent there with an amazing community of friends. Florence was delighted yet saddened when she sold her share of the cottage in 2023 having been unable to attend for many years. 

Upon graduating high school at Central School, she started working at J Hutchinson Jewelry. She continued working while overseeing their Book Store business. Florence flourished in the insurance business and in 1978 became branch manager for the Personal Insurance Co overseeing MB, SA, NW ON. Her achievements over the years were respected in numerous letters of recognition and added responsibilities. Florence was proud, strong-willed and fiercely independent.  She strived for excellence throughout her life.  

Florence retired in 1993 and purchased a home in Mesa, AZ where she enthusiastically wintered until 2018 at age 89. A strong and wonderful community including many Winnipeg expats filled winters with travel, get togethers and laughter.  She enjoyed reading the morning paper and doing crosswords with a coffee on the deck, overlooking her garden.

Florence was always welcoming and happiest, entertaining relatives and friends, cooking big dinners, laughing and talking for hours. She loved to travel, and time spent is treasured by her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Florence built many loving memories that are shared by those who knew her and spent time with her. 

Florence attended St George’s Anglican Church in Transcona since a toddler and was active in fundraising for many years. She served on the Board of Directors for Jocelyn House Inc in Winnipeg.

Florence’s final years were supported with dignity by the caring staff at River Ridge II, Donwood Manor and Winnipeg Regional Health Authority. Additional support from Comforts of Home Care, Friendly Care Giver and friend Debbie Bomback filled her days with activity and laughter. Thank you.     

Our memories of Florence, her honesty and integrity, love and kind spirit, strength and pride, quick wit and laughter will give us strength. She will be missed by all who were fortunate to have known her. Our love always.

Florence requested there be no service and a private family burial will take place later.

In lieu of other tributes, donations can be made in Florence’s name to the Canadian Cancer Society, Heart and Stroke Foundation or of your choice.