Anna Atkins

Gwen. She has been many things to many people through the years and all of us will have known and related to her in our own unique way. To us, her family, she was wife, Mother and Granny Gwen. When we think of her, the characteristics and qualities she possessed are easy to recall because everything about her was authentic and genuine. She loved to learn, pursue knowledge and enjoy nature. It was not uncommon for her to have several books on the go at once and her knowledge of the world around her meant that you could converse with her easily about many topics. A walk through the bush with her was a science lesson. She joyfully shared her knowledge with her children and grandchildren; teaching us to love, respect and enjoy the world around us. She was a woman of many talents, abilities and interests and was never afraid to try something new. She was a skilled artist trying her hand at painting and wood carving. In the summer she could often be found tending to her garden and flowers where she surrounded herself with as much color as possible. Through the years she also enjoyed tennis, dancing, learning to use the computer, golfing, playing Bridge and swimming (as many as 3 times a day if her Grandchildren asked!). She loved life and approached it with a great sense of humor and playfulness. She had the gift of hospitality. She graciously and willingly opened her home to family, friends and strangers and there was always room for one more. She was a great cook and knew how to make people feel welcome whether it was a casual summer BBQ or the table set with her finest linen, dishes and stemware. She had a diverse personality. When she and Jim lived in Laurie River she was the town medic, event organizer, counselor and “Mom” to everyone who lived there. She could don her buckskin, grab a rifle, and head to the bush for some berry picking or bird hunting but she also loved to put on her finest suit, hat and accessories to enjoy one of the finer things in life – she was a lady of class! She loved the lake. She knew every nuance of every season and loved them all. Her home at the lake was certainly where her heart was, especially when her family was there to enjoy it with her. It was one of her greatest wishes to remain at home right to the end and her wish was granted. She was determined and strong, a woman who faced life’s challenges and disappointments with inner strength and grace. She was dependable, loyal, a true friend to many and she stood up for what she believed in. Her greatest treasure on earth was her family. She served us, poured herself into us and loved us unconditionally. Family came first and we knew she was always there for us. She loved nothing more than being with her family and quality time spent with us was her priority. In recent years when health slowed her down she could often be seen sitting and taking it all in with a smile on her face. We were always on her heart and in her prayers no matter where life had taken us. Most importantly, she was a woman of great faith in her Lord Jesus Christ and it was her life’s deepest desire to know Him, love Him and serve Him and to pass this legacy on to her family. Now, she is with Him – complete in body, mind and spirit – enjoying His presence and inviting us to know Him as well. Gwen was born Wednesday, August 3, 1927 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to Mae and Gordon Prior, sister to Neil. Gwen’s childhood was spent in The Pas, Manitoba, where she met and married Jim Atkins on April 15, 1947 and they spent the next 67 years together. They started their lives together and were blessed with the birth of their three children making their family complete. Their stops in Northern Manitoba included Laurie River, Gillam and Thompson as places they called home. Jim and Gwen settled in their retirement home at Clearwater Lake. This place became the meeting place for family and friends to gather. Gwen passed away Saturday, March 29, 2014 at St. Anthony’s Hospital, The Pas, age 86 years. Gwen is survived by her husband Jim; children; brother; grandchildren; and great grandchildren. In keeping with Gwen’s wishes, cremation took place and a service of remembrance to celebrate her life was held Thursday, April 3, 2014, at 1:00 pm, at Christ Church Anglican, The Pas, Manitoba, with Rev. Rebecca Graham and Rev. Grahme Spear presiding. Music ministry was provided by Isobel Halcrow and the Christ Church Anglican Choir. Eulogy was delivered by Val Atkins. Scripture readings were proclaimed by Laura Atkins, Simone Atkins and Leslie Mennie. Following the service, a reception was held for family and friends at the Christ Church Parish Hall. If friends so desire, donations to a charity of choice, would be appreciated by Gwen’s family. If friends so desire, donations to a charity of choice, would be appreciated by Gwen’s family.