Obituary of MAGDALENE HANDKAMER

Magdalene Alexina Handkamer

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother Magdalene (Mag) Handkamer on October 10^th, 2019.

Mom leaves to mourn in her passing, three sons Ron (Sandy), Tom (Chris), Bob (Lisa), six grandchildren Kristen, Brian, Kevin, Melissa, David, and Dayna, five great grandchildren, brother in law Bill Neil, sister in law Dorothy Handkamer, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother Josephine and father John, sisters Veronica and Josephine, and brothers Otto and Roy.

Mom was born on September 1^st, 1927 in Morden, Manitoba. Her memories were of a happy childhood working together to care for the animals they raised, the food they grew, and helping around the family home. She attended Maple Leaf School where she excelled in math and spelling and enjoyed playing girl’s hockey and baseball with her best friend Irene Reichert.

The family eventually moved to Winnipeg where mom went to work for Defence Industries, followed by Great West Life and the Health Sciences Centre from which she retired.

 In 1945 she met future husband Paul on his return from the war and they married on May 21^st, 1949. Their love for each other never wavered from that day. They built their home on Jefferson Avenue where they raised their three sons. Mom and Dad spent many wonderful summers with family and friends at the St. John’s Sportsmen’s Club in the Whiteshell Provincial Park.  Winter vacations were spent in the sun with family – Bill and Jo Neil and Otto and Elsie Schan. Mom was strong in her Catholic faith and was active within her church - St. Anthony of Padua. She was a member of the Catholic Women’s League and in years past held the positions of President and Secretary. She was instrumental in starting the parish Leisure Club. She was a Eucharistic Minister, reader and proud member of the choir for many years. She cherished the many friendships she made through the church and remained active until her passing.

Mom, your warmth, your smile, your quiet strength and generosity will live on in our hearts forever. Thank you for always seeing the best in us and always expecting the best from us. You gave so much and asked for nothing in return. Your way was effortless and without pretense; a true inspiration. You will live on in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured.

Rest in peace after a life well lived.

 A celebration of mom’s life will take place on Friday, October 18^th, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Anthony of Padua Church-250 Burrin Avenue, with Father Dominic Yuen officiating. Interment will take place in Holy Ghost Cemetery

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Manitoba Cancer Care.