Tribute

Edna Gertrude (“Gunny”) O’Brien passed away peacefully at Mariposa Gardens in Osoyoos on Tuesday November 10, 2015 at the age of 87 years. Edna was born on November 9, 1928 in Shell River Municipality, Manitoba.

She is survived by her partner Arthur Duncan McKeen; son Bernie Thompson (Theresa); daughters Kathy Bowes (Russ), Karen Thompson, Karen Petrychko (Randy); daughter-in-law Trish Thompson; the McKeen family – Dennis & Joanne, Sandra Dixon, Sherron & Richard Russell, Shelly & Lyle Kubat, Val & Trevor Klasson; sister Alice Niemen; numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren; great-grandchildren as well as countless friends and acquaintances.

She was predeceased by her husband George Thompson in 1965; granddaughter Kerry Petrychko in 1978, stepdaughter Sandi O’Brien in 1989, son Bruce Thompson in 2011 and granddaughter Sheila Hurtubise in 2014.

In Edna’s family of origin (Rogers), she was predeceased by her parents Cecil and Doris; two sisters Donalda and Gwen and two brothers Richard (Dick) and Walter.

Edna always had a thirst for knowledge and travelled independently by train to Nova Scotia as a young teen to complete her schooling. On return to Manitoba she taught school in the Mafeking area where she met and married her first husband George. They raised their family in several towns in southern Manitoba, settling in Minnedosa until his early death by car accident in 1965.

Edna then went back to work to support and raise her family. She held a number of administrative positions over the years including at MTS, Minnedosa High School, Minnedosa Tribune, Gardewine North and finally the Department of Mines & Resources with the Manitoba Government.

In 1974, Edna married Mickey O’Brien and they enjoyed four brief but happy years together. The family blended and we all gained new siblings, cousins and friends. In the years to come, the entire family had many memorable times at “the cabin” that they started together at Beaver Lake. Gunny kept score and always seemed to come out on top when we played Nickels. She was the legitimate victor in most all games of Trivial Pursuit.

Almost thirty years ago Edna and Art McKeen began their journey together and have had a great life travelling the world and entertaining those around them with their good hearted banter. They moved to Osoyoos twenty years ago to spend their retirement years in warmer climes. Theirs was a very special partnership and they were very fortunate to have had many joyous years together.

“Gunny” was a character and will be well remembered by all in the numerous stories and anecdotes she leaves behind. She had many interests and hobbies in her long life but her favourite pastime was being with people she cared about and having fun!

Special thanks to the caring staff at Mariposa Gardens and especially Dr. De Vries for the wonderful end of life care you gave to Edna.

A celebration of Edna’s life and inurnment are planned for spring 2016 in Flin Flon, MB.

If desired, memorial donations in Edna’s honour may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation in your community.

Condolences & tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com

Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.