Gwendoline Esther Molnar

October 30, 1926 – June 15, 2026

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gwendoline Esther Molnar (née McGregor) on June 15, 2026, at the remarkable age of 99.

Born on October 30, 1926, in Edmonton, Gwennie grew up in a loving family during the early years of the city's growth. Her mother, Annie McGregor, worked as a telephone operator, and her father, John McGregor, was an electrician. She shared her childhood with two sisters and a brother.

As a young woman during the Second World War, Gwennie served with the Women's Royal Canadian Naval Service (the Wrens). Following her service, she attended the University of Alberta, receiving a B. Ed. and (later in life) a B. A. in fine arts. It was at the University of Alberta where she met her future husband, George Molnar, a gifted young doctor with a distinguished war record. Together they raised two children, Janie and Charlie, and she worked at the National Film board to support him with his academic achievements.

The family spent several years at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, before returning to Edmonton, where they renovated their family home. Though women of her generation were often expected to remain at home, Gwennie possessed a creative spirit that could not be confined. She knew she had a gift for writing and art, and throughout her life she, with notable successes, devoted herself to both.

In her late fifties, she began publishing the poems she had written, including I Said to Sam, Animal Rap, and Hazel’s Rainbow Ride. These works led to several successful anthologies of children's poetry, and inspired her to write novels as well. She also produced the popular memoir At Home in Old Strathcona, about the history of her family and the area they grew up in. Poetry remained her constant companion, and she continued writing throughout her life, often producing as many as two poems a day.

Gwennie was also a gifted artist and an explorer of spiritual and mystical themes. She created large acrylic paintings that were exhibited in galleries, and embraced new artistic technologies as they emerged, becoming an early practitioner of digital art. Her creative work received recognition through appearances on radio and television.

Those who knew Gwennie remember her as cheerful, intelligent, creative, and deeply kind. She possessed a rare combination of curiosity, warmth, and imagination that enriched the lives of everyone around her. Her love of words, art, and family remained constant throughout her nearly century-long life.

Gwennie is survived by her children, Janie and Charlie, and her grandchildren, including Hazel, as well as generations of friends, readers, and admirers who were touched by her remarkable life and generous spirit. Hazel was with her at the end, holding her hand and singing gently to her.

She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.