Obituary For Mary Keown
Mary Keown, resident of Grande Prairie, AB, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 15, 2022, at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, surrounded by her loving family, at the age of 89 years.
A cherished mother, grandmother, GG, aunt and friend. Mary will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Mary was born to Frank and Edith Krpan in Prestville, AB. Alongside her seven siblings, Mary grew up on the family farm where she acquired her incredible work ethic. While life in the 1930’s presented its challenges, she had many fond memories of box lunches, barn dances and playing softball (with no glove, she would add).
In 1955, Mary married her best friend and love of her life Doug Keown. They were partners in every sense of the word and created a beautiful and happy life together. Their business ventures took them to Wembley, Spirit River, and their final home, Grande Prairie. No matter where life took them, Doug and Mary were beloved in their communities and known for their generosity, kindness, humor and open-door policy. There was nothing they wouldn’t do for their family and friends.
In their younger years, Doug and Mary participated in many activities including square dancing and curling. They looked forward to every opportunity to celebrate with their friends and family and were wonderful hosts. They were devoted Edmonton Oilers fans, chuckwagon and rodeo enthusiasts, country music junkies, and never missed a chance to cheer on their team at the brier (grandma particularly loved ‘her boy,’ Brad Gushue). Doug and Mary also enjoyed many trips to Hawaii; a special place that created lifelong memories.
But nothing in life would bring them greater joy than their family, especially their grandkids. Kim, Jody, Ashlee and Darby were the center of their universe and no matter what they participated in, Doug and Mary were their biggest fans. They were at every hockey, basketball, fastball, volleyball game and equestrian event, cheering with all their might. They were adoringly known as papa and grandma to many and were a welcome and loving addition in many lives. Their passion to watch their grandkids grow took them across the province and even to Europe. There was no place too far to go to watch their grandkids play.
Doug and Mary were two peas in a pod, and we’d like to think they’re finally reunited. Mary will forever be remembered for her quick-wit, kind and generous spirit, wicked sense of humour, feisty spirit, and big heart.
Mary is survived and will be greatly missed by her children Donna (Darrell) Watson and Candace (Wade) Guise; grandchildren: Kim Watson, Jody Watson, Ashlee Guise (Terry Eggenschwiler), and Darby Guise; as well as great-grandchildren Hayes and Truett Eggenschwiler.
Mary was predeceased by her husband Doug; parents Frank Sr. and Edith Krpan; sisters Katie Knezevich and Annie Krpan; as well as brothers: John, Tom, Frank Jr. and Louie Krpan.
The family would like to acknowledge the kindness and care of the wonderful staff at the Grande Prairie regional hospital; a special recognition to the compassionate team in the ICU. Thank you to all her friends and family for their love and support.
Due to covid a private family service will be held on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, at 1:00pm.
A livestream of the service will be accessible 15 minutes prior to the service. The link will be available on Mary’s obituary on Oliver’s funeral home website.
Her final resting place will be at the Grande Prairie Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Memorial Donations in honour of Mary Keown, may be made to a charity of one’s choice.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Mary Keown October 07 1932 February 15 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Grande-Prairie, Province: Alberta