Obituary of HELEN ASHCROFT

HELEN ASHCROFT (née Stark) February 8, 2014, Mom died. She was born February 18, 1912, the third of ten children; all predeceased her. She grew up in southwestern Manitoba. In her late teens, Mom moved to Winnipeg. In 1939, she met Joseph Ashcroft. Shortly after their marriage in January of 1941, Dad was sent overseas, where he later became a prisoner of war. Mom did not see him again until August of 1945. They farmed near Bowsman until Dad’s death in 1980. Mom moved to Swan River, later to Lion’s Place in Winnipeg and then to Holy Family Home. Mom has one son, Joe, and six daughters, Margaret Anne (deceased in 1962), Wilma, Ruth, Chris, Midge, and Donni. Six girls born in seven years! She had the mammoth task of being the principal caregiver for their children as well as being actively involved in farming: milking cows by hand, raising chickens, growing a huge garden, operating farm equipment. Mom has eleven grandchildren and several great grandchildren. Her family and friends meant everything to her. Mom was a friendly, sociable person and always tried to keep in touch with everyone. She was always available if anyone needed anything and was good at advocating for others, as well as herself. Her religious faith was of central importance to her; she said her rosary each day and regularly attended church. She enjoyed life and always stopped to smell the roses. She held a wide variety of interests, from playing cards and various hobbies to reading/listening to countless books. She kept up with the latest news and had a reasoned opinion on most matters. Even as she was approaching 102, she walked with her walker and participated in exercises and games. It was still tough to get the best of her in a verbal joust. Everyone was amazed at how “with it” she was. A memorial is planned for Saturday, February 15 at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. In lieu of flowers, please donate to CNIB.