Marian Johnston (nee Barker, formerly McDonnell)

You regularly told us how lucky you were, but we are the lucky ones to have you as our Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Granny, family member and friend. We will seek comfort in continuing your practice of finding joy in the simplest of life's moments. We will honour your legacy of gratitude, your adventurous spirit, and fierce love for us. We will celebrate you with music, laughter, dancing; by spending time in the sunshine and in the snow. A childhood rooted in adventure, resilience, family, faith, music, nature and rescuing animals-you were active, intelligent, curious and a wee bit cheeky. You grew up skiing at Grouse Mountain, taking the streetcar, swimming at Second Beach, canoeing and camping up the inlet; inspired and surrounded with family and lifelong friendships.

You worked at the creamery, at the ready-to-wear shop, hosted TV and radio shows, taught fitness and retired as a bookkeeper extraordinaire to become a full time Grandma beyond compare! You resided in many places and spaces. From living on Grouse Island (off-grid before it was trendy) to Northern BC, your hard work, love for your family and sense of humour ensured each location became a "home". You travelled extensively and were appreciative of every experience from kissing the Blarney Stone to snorkeling in Belize, to watching Pavarotti in St. Paul. Whether you were on the Appleton rum train in Jamaica, sharing snacks squished in the backseat between two grandkids, stuffing your bag full of muffins from your favourite Sechelt shop, or on a moonlit canoe paddle at Purden you found joy in each unique experience. Easter at Jasper Park Lodge, snuggled up with your dog and a good book by your fireplace, enjoying the perfectly crafted vodka martini or just as perfectly crafted toast & preserves while on a deck overlooking the Pacific, or bundled up for a windy walk in the sparking snow, you truly appreciated each moment and would share your gratitude with those around you. You were always quick to tell us how much fun you were having and how much you appreciated us, whether it was sharing an after school meal, late night giggles during a sleepover, or helping us with an activity or project. You inspired us, taught us, accepted us and celebrated us.

You were an avid sports fan, lacrosse holding a special place in your heart. You loved watching and cheering for your favourite athletes and teams and were quick to comment if any of your favourites did not have the outcomes they deserved. This dedication transferred to watching your grandkids and great grandkids do what they loved. You could not get enough of watching them dance, sing, play hockey, volleyball, basketball, baseball, lacrosse and karate. You looked forward to every band, voice, and musical performance and kept every piece of evidence from each festival, competition, show and performance.

Music & movement, health & wellness, nature & animals have been integral throughout your life. You taught us to hear and feel the rhythms and melodies present in everything from the changing seasons, to waves on the shoreline, to sports plays and lively conversations. You taught us to appreciate life in a holistic way. From the scent of your legendary waffles, to feeling the warmth of the sun on your face, to trusting yourself and having faith in your heart that everything will turn out the way it Is supposed to...you showed us the beauty and brilliance that come with appreciating your life. You taught us to use the nice things, and not just let them sit hidden away; you applied this value to your life and embraced new adventures and experiences with an open mind and engaging sense of humour.

You have always wrapped us in your unconditional love and could make anything feel better. We will emulate your legacy of strength, love and light and will hold you in our hearts forever, taking comfort in knowing we will carry the "luck" you shared with us for always.

You loved this traditional Irish blessing and often shared it when you felt others needed to find comfort. May anyone who seeks comfort find it in your legacy of love, gratitude and luck.

May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face. The rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again. May God hold you in the palm of His hand.