It is with grateful hearts we celebrate the life of Marilyn Joan Hemenway (nee Smith), who passed away on August 25th, 2026, at the age of 69, after a courageous battle with cancer and ALS. She lived a warm and joy-filled life, and will be fondly remembered by her family and countless friends.
Born in Hamiota, Manitoba, on November 29th, 1956, she spent the majority of her life in Winnipeg building a beautiful and full life with her husband Bill. They were married for a happy 46 years, sharing and leaning on each other through life’s ups and downs.
Above all else, Marilyn adored her family. She was a devoted wife, sister, mom, and grandma, who poured her heart into those she loved. Her home was warm, joyous, and happy, which was never more evident than when it was filled with the love and laughter of her grandchildren. This nurturing spirit was also reflected in her beautiful garden, which, like her family, bloomed continually under her care each year.
An active member of her community, Marilyn had a passion for many sports. She could often be found spending sunny days on the golf course, or enjoying the camaraderie on the curling sheets during the winter months. Her energy, warmth, and competitive spirit will be deeply missed by her teammates who were some of her closest friends.
Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and medical staff at Cancer Care Manitoba, HSC, Brightwater, and Riverview, for their compassionate care during her illness.
She was predeceased by her mother, Margaret Smith, her father, John Smith, and her brother-in-law, Jim Wilson. Her memory will be forever cherished by her husband, Bill; her children, Megan (Jason) McMaster, and Kyle (Chantal) Hemenway; her grandchildren, Liam, Emri, and Milo Hemenway; her siblings, Allan (Marlene) Smith, Ron Smith, and Sherry Wilson; and a large circle of extended family and dear friends.
A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, September 3rd, at 10:00am, at Thomson “In the Park”, 1291 McGillivray Blvd.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Canadian Cancer Society.
