Geraldine (Gerri) Catherine Oakley
(nee Foley)
June 3, 1935 – January 29, 2021
On Friday afternoon, January 29, Dad reached out and took mom’s hand. Her struggle with dementia was over, and she would once again be with the love of her life. Ted met Gerri, a young girl from Norwood, and an amazing 64 years of love and marriage would follow. They spent most of their life in their home on Harold Avenue in Transcona raising their six children. Mom’s Catholic faith was very important to her, with St. Joseph the Worker being her church of choice. She became a member of the Catholic Women’s League, which she thoroughly enjoyed being a part of. The Catholic education of all her children was very important to her. She always reminded us that giving was more important than getting, and that we were to be kind to others.
Mom worked part-time over the years, with her favourite job being in customer service in the Eaton’s downtown store. She loved that department store!
Family was mom’s life. She grew up with three sisters, and two brothers, and her tight bond with them was clear throughout our lives. Family gatherings included everyone, and as the years went on the family just kept getting larger. More Christmas dinner space was required and the rental of the South Transcona Community Club became necessary, to accommodate everyone. Mom had the opportunity of a lifetime when she travelled with her sisters to Ireland to experience their Irish heritage firsthand. Mom’s favorite place was Victoria Beach. After years of renting a cottage, she encouraged Dad to buy one. It was mom’s peaceful place, where many family celebrations were held. Right up until the end, she always asked about the cottage. Mom, you can rest assured that Tom, Jane and Mya will take care of it.
Mom will truly be missed by her children: Dawn, Clint (Susan), Gary (Monique), Chris (Linda), Tom (Jane), Jennifer (Jason). Grandchildren: Sarah (Travis), Kara (Josh), Jessica (Kyle), Ted (Amy), Katlyn, Tehgan, Jamie (Tyree), Samantha, Trevor, Aryn, Christine, Mya, Jenna, Troy, Shane. Great-grandchildren: Nixon, Ayla and mom just missed our new additional Isabella. Brothers and sisters: Pat (Al), Lenore, Doug (Janice), Rita (Garrie). Sister-in-law: Lynn (Les) and numerous nieces and nephews. Gerri was predeceased by her husband Ted, her mother and father, George and Helen Foley, brother John, mother and father-in- law, Bertha and Alfred Oakley, brother and sister- in-law, Don, Jeanine, and nephew, Kevin.
We all take comfort Mom, knowing you are in a better place. You are the person we joyfully remember: the loving wife, the beautiful mother, the fun sister, and the terrific grandmother.
We wish to express our sincere thanks to the third floor staff at Actionmarguerite, St. Boniface, for the kindness and care they provided mom. Special thanks to her spiritual adviser, Widny, who prayed with her regularly and guided us through her last few hours.
“Mothers hold their children’s hands for just a little while…
and their hearts forever “
(an Irish blessing)
Mom, we are so thankful to have had the love, support and guidance throughout our upbringing. Your calm and unflappable manner will forever be remembered. You were truly one of a kind! We thank you for not listening to your doctors, and proceeding to have five more children (even though it was not advised after your 18 months in the sanitorium fighting tuberculosis). Our large family is a constant source of love and support. We are forever grateful to you and Dad for all that you provided us in life! Rest in peace beautiful lady!
Due to Covid restrictions an immediate family funeral mass was celebrated on Friday, February 5, at St. Joseph the Worker Church. Interment will take place with her husband Ted, at a later date. A large family celebration of her life will take place when it is safe to do so. Flowers gratefully declined. If you wish, a donation can be made to Actionmarguerite, Personal Care Home, 185 RueDespins, in Mom’s memory.
E.J. COUTU & CO. FUNERAL DIRECTORS
204-253-5086
ejcoutu.ca
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Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Geraldine Gerri Oakley Friday January 29th 2021..
Décès pour la Ville: Winnipeg, Province: Manitoba