Obituary of GERALDINE PEARL DACOMBE (nee. Beaudry)

Geraldine Pearl Dacombe (nee Beaudry) was born March 24, 1925 and passed peacefully on January 21, 2025. Predeceased by husband Ed, eldest son Darryl, sisters Muriel, Shirley and Doreen and brothers Orval and Rod.

Celebrating her memory are her children Ron (Lorraine), Len (Janet) and Lorraine (Al) Dewar, grandchildren Jeremy (Cathy), Daniel (Sara), Chrissie (Jerry) Baker, Allan (Allie), David (Amanda), Emmet and Asher Dewar, 11 Great Grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.

Mom met dad in West Kildonan shortly after he returned from serving in the Navy. They married in 1947 and moved out to the Veteran’s community of Rivercrest in 1948 where she thought no one would ever visit them. Nothing could have been further from the truth!

After marrying, mom embraced her role as “stay at home” wife and soon they welcomed their first son, Darryl. When Darryl contracted polio in 1953 shortly after Ron was born, mom quickly learned how to advocate for his care needs including teaching herself speech therapy and physiotherapy techniques, enabling Darryl to function fully in society. They then welcomed Len and Lorraine over the next 11 years. Mom’s caregiving role continued, looking after elderly relatives and family friends for many years.

In 1969, mom and dad bought a summer cabin at Ingolf Ontario, spending many hours on the water, with friends, playing games and undertaking many building and renovation projects, continuing to this day. She enjoyed time with grandchildren and great grandchildren and was especially known for planning elaborate treasure hunts and crafting.

Mom and dad traveled locally and abroad, connecting with extended family in the UK and Australia. In retirement, they traveled with their 5th wheel as snowbirds. They served as tour-guides showcasing Canada and the US to visiting relatives. Always making new friends along the way.

Music was a large part of mom’s life from a young age, playing piano and accordion in her father’s dance band, and the organ at Rivercrest United Church for over 16 years.

Mom was an active volunteer as evidenced by years of faithful work at Rivercrest United and St. John’s Presbyterian Churches, Middlechurch Personal Care Home and locally in the community. Mom was well known for her baking, especially pies and butter tarts!

Many thanks to the dedicated WRHA Home Care staff who cared for her in the Donwood EPH and to the Donwood PCH staff who made her final days comfortable.

Flowers gratefully declined. If desired, donations may be made to the Donwood Manor Foundation. Cropo Funeral Chapel for arrangements.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St.