Obituary Overview
Maxine Birnie
Maxine had a smile that could light up a room and kindness that knew no bounds.
She was born in Ogema, Saskatchewan and raised on the farm near Dahinda. With a family of musicians, she spent many joyful evenings at dances where her parents played, and eventually joined in, finding her own voice singing with the Moerike sisters and the CHAB Moose Jaw Radio Singers. She also played piano and guitar. Maxine had wonderful memories of her childhood days on the farm. She would often say “We worked hard, but we played hard too and we always had music, every day!”
Maxine attended elementary school in Dahinda and high school in Ogema, where she met the young man who would become the love of her life, Howard Birnie. After receiving her teaching credentials from Normal School in Moose Jaw, she taught in Coral rural school near Trossachs and in Pangman. She always had a special way with children.
Maxine and Howard were married in 1952 and they began their life together in Saskatoon. She was a wonderful mother, lovingly and wisely raising her family through many moves across North America, making friends wherever she went. She kept meticulous records and photo albums, never missing a friend’s or relative’s birthday or a day of celebration. She loved flowers and gardening, was active in women’s groups as a member and volunteer. She skated, golfed and was an avid bowler. Her talent and patience for crewel stitchery saw her create many beautiful works. Together, she and Howard enjoyed a love of ballroom dancing, frequently cutting-a-rug at family gatherings, attending many dances at the renowned Danceland in Watrous and regularly attending dances in Saskatoon and in Mesa, where they spent 19 wonderful snowbird winters.
Maxine is survived by Howard, her loving husband of 66 years; daughters Judy (Rob), Barbara (Jeff) and Moira (Bryan); sons Barry and Brad (Sharon); ten grandchildren and one great grandchild; and brothers Carmen and Daryl. She was predeceased by her parents, Ewald and Opal Moerike of Ogema, and her siblings Wayne, Elaine, LaVerne, Donna, and Mavis.
Maxine lived a full and wonderful life. She shared generously her many gifts—the most important of all being an unconditional love of family. She brought us all closer together with her smile, her kindness and her love. For these gifts we are eternally grateful.
A special thanks to the caregivers at Stensrud Lodge and St. Paul’s Hospital. Donations to these or to the Alzheimer’s Society are appreciated in lieu of flowers.
Your memories and stories of Maxine are precious to us
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Maxine Birnie 2018.source
Décès pour la Ville: Saskatchewanatoon, Province: Saskatchewan
