Obituary Overview
Gwendolyn Ann Duha (Popp)
September 8, 1930 – August 1, 2018
Gwen passed peacefully Wednesday night, with family at her side, to join her beloved husband Emeric V. Duha, her sister-in-law and partner-in-crime Margaret, her parents John and Katherine, and her sister Marilyn. She is lovingly remembered by her three children and their families, including four grandchildren, and many friends and family.
Gwen led a very active and fulfilling life. She had a passion for education, completing a Bachelor of Home Economics at the University of Manitoba and then going on to graduate with her Masters of Retail Marketing at New York University. Following university, she then spent many years working at Eaton’s where she made many lifelong friends.
Gwen had a love of the arts which started early in her life. She completed many grades through the Toronto Conservatory of Music (piano) and spent many years training as a ballerina. Her early exposure to music, dance and art led to a lifelong appreciation of the arts and as such, she was a patron to many of Winnipeg’s cultural offerings such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Symphony, MTC, and Opera.
She was also an avid philanthropist and volunteer. For many years she was deeply dedicated to the annual Cancer Care Gala planning committee, she volunteered at the Winnipeg Art Gallery and every Halloween she delivered, collected and counted coins for Unicef from schools across the city. She generously contributed to many of Winnipeg’s diverse, non-profit organizations.
Mom loved a good party, whether that was the annual Christmas Eve party she would host for many families and friends, a bash with her friends at her winter home in Sarasota or just a good old-fashioned birthday gathering. Her fine taste in food, clothing, and decorations resulted in many great memories for everyone. Gwen’s passion for bringing people together to celebrate will certainly live on in the many traditions and values she has instilled in her family.
The Duha Family would like to extend a warm thank you to all who knew and remember Gwen. In particular they would like to thank Erin and the team at Home Care Assistance. Erin and Gwen formed a close bond in the last year and made this time much easier and more comfortable for both Gwen and her family. The family would also like to thank Michael and Quyhn, who went over and above to ensure she could continue to be the stylish and beautiful lady that she was until her final days. Finally, the staff at both the Portsmouth Retirement Home and Grace Hospital for their devotion and generosity – the family is grateful for all of your efforts.
The Duha family will be having a private memorial service for Gwen. In lieu of flowers, we request that those who wish to express their love and appreciation for her, to send us a note about a moment shared, a thought you had, or something you think she may have liked. Send it to RememberingGwen@duhagroup.com. A donation by the Duha Family will be made for each response we receive. Gwen loved Assiniboine Park, and with your words, you and Gwen can help our park flourish for future generations.
“Unable are the loved to die. For love is immortality.” – Emily Dickinson
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Gwendolyn Ann Duha 2018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba
