Peacefully, on December 11, 2020 with the love of her two girls by her side, at age 95 Martha succumbed to the effects of the relentless virus that has taken many from their loved ones; COVID-19.
Martha, also known to some as Marnie, was predeceased by her parents, all six of her siblings, and her husband of 44 years, Marshall (Jim). She is survived by her two daughters Jan (Gary) and Shelley (John) and grandsons Kyle, Trevor, and Cameron, all of whom loved her dearly.
Martha resided for most of her life in Winnipeg, but as a young girl she lived with her family in Matlock, MB. Eventually the Matlock home became the family cottage. Many weekends and summers were spent there, joined by other family members. She had said she enjoyed her time at Matlock and would reminisce now and then of bygone days. Martha was proud of the career she established as a young woman at Manitoba Telephone System with production of the telephone books. She met Jim, who also had a Matlock and MTS connection, and they would later marry in Moorhead, Minnesota. Shortly after marrying, Martha left MTS. They started their family and purchased their East Kildonan home where they lived for many years and became well acquainted with the surrounding families. When Jim passed away in 1999, Martha remained in the comfort of her home for 18 more years. On December 26, 2017, a sudden change in health meant she would forgo independent living. Although life would be different when she moved to Park Manor, she regained most of her health and we were fortunate to have her in our lives for three more years.
Martha was a wonderful caregiver. She lovingly cared for her mother and father; she provided care for neighbourhood children while their parents worked; and she was a loving mom and gramma. Martha’s selflessness, determination, and interest in people will be remembered and the cheerful sound of her laughter treasured always. She took every opportunity to laugh.
The family acknowledges those at Park Manor who treated Martha with kindness and dignity. There were many staff who connected with her, in particular, Kiflay. He could always make Martha laugh. He would playfully tousle her hair, and jokingly taunt her to put on a bikini to go to Matlock beach. Bless you Kiflay. Also Erin, who chatted regularly with her about Matlock, Gimli, and everywhere in between, much to her delight.
There will be no service. Cremation has taken place. To those so inclined, a donation in Martha’s memory may be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, an organization Martha supported over the years.
We are heartbroken and miss you so much Mom/Gramma, but it was your time to leave and we knew we couldn’t keep you forever. Rest peacefully; you’re forever in our hearts.
“Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar
When I put out to sea.”
(Alfred, Lord Tennyson)
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Martha Ryland Friday December 11th 2020..
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba