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Geraldine (Geri) McDonald Obituary
Geraldine (Geri) Joan McDonald
September 23, 1945 – January 28, 2024
Peacefully, on Sunday, January 28th at the age of 78, with her son and her two sisters at her side, Geri was released into the loving arms of our Lord Jesus Christ. Geri was predeceased by her husband Ellis Shippam; son Todd Davies; parents Victor and Helga McDonald; brother-in-law Ken Mlodzinski; and nephew Marc Boutin. Lovingly remembered by her son Kent Davies, daughter Casey Davies (Toon), and grandchildren Justin (Karsen), Alexandra (Renee), Christian, Samantha, and Kyla, and great grandchildren Bodhi and Linden; her sisters Esther Ann Boutin and Denise Mlodzinski; and her nieces and nephews Georgi Ann (Ivo), Gyula (Lelia), Adam (Jacquie), Renise, Cindy (Trevor), and Lovita (Thomas), their children: and many friends and extended family.
Geri was the firstborn child to Victor and Helga McDonald. She was the apple of her father’s eye from day one. From the moment she popped out she exuded grace and poise, very soon becoming a talented dancer. A talent which was lifelong. She, and her two sisters, were raised in a humble, cozy home on Strathnaver Ave in Selkirk which was always full of company. No wonder that she and her sisters grew up endowed with such tremendous social charm. Geri was a popular teen, strong willed, smart, pretty, even becoming runner-up in the Miss Selkirk beauty pageant. (Her father, Victor, was just wicked that she didn’t win the title.)
Geri was married twice. First, to Larrie Davies, with whom she raised their three children in the Maples in a very busy household. At the age of 42, she became a young, beaming Grandma, a role in life that she truly treasured. Geri was a charming, stylish, multi-talented and energetic woman, whether applied to her career at the Royal Bank of Canada, selling Michelle Lynn jewelry at home parties, or as an enthusiastic supporter of the various endeavours of close family and friends, never hesitating to offer time, and creative and/or wise advice. She was also particularly proud of her Hecla Island heritage, and belonging to the very extensive Bell family, maintaining strong relationships with many aunts, uncles and cousins all through her life. Geri met her second husband, Ellis Shippam, while ballroom dancing. After their respective careers, they waltzed into retirement splitting their time between winters in Mesa AZ and summers in Spruce Sands MB, enjoying a rich social life in both communities. While she and Ellis didn’t always jive, their perseverance and perfectionism in attacking home improvement projects inevitably ended in victory, battle scars and all. Where they were always completely in step was in their devotion to their dogs—Sarah and their most beloved Sassy.
Another significant part of Geri’s life has been her Christian faith. She was a member of Selkirk Community Church, and previously enjoyed the fellowship of Christian Women’s Club and her Women’s Bible Study groups. Unfortunately, her involvement in these and other activities had been reduced over the past few years. The ordeals of life – the passing of her eldest son, Todd, then Sassy, then Ellis – all take their toll. And after several years of frail health, she has spent the last six months at the Betel Personal Care Home where she passed away. We would like to extend a special thank-you to the staff and caregivers at the Betel for their patient and loving care.
Thank you to Gilbart Funeral Home for the prompt and personal attention they always provide for our family.
A memorial service and interment will take place at a later date.
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January 28 2024
Death notice for the town of: Selkirk, Province: Manitoba
death notice Geraldine Geri McDonald January 28 2024
obituaries notice Geraldine Geri McDonald January 28 2024
We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Geraldine Geri McDonald January 28 2024 and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
