Tamara Alexis Varnes

Tammy was born Jan.17, 1962 and was predeceased by her parents, Roy and Ethel Gorkoff, who she now joins in Heaven. She will be greatly missed by her children, Rhonda (Jason) and Matthew, her lifelong friend Rick (Ron, Eileen and Sigrid), and her siblings Rick (Freda: Ricky and Tracey), Pat (Kenny and David) and Kelly (Greg: Gabrielle and Mara) along with her many other nieces, nephews (Scott, Chris), cousins, aunts and numerous friends.

As a gregarious and spirited person, Tammy’s youth was spent playing sports (a back catcher on many baseball teams and curling at the Fort Rouge) and travelling across the country on fond family camping trips. Madge Lake was a special place, where she forged bonds with siblings and extended family having countless adventures. On long walks and canoeing, Tammy found solace in nature.

There were two things Tammy had always wanted in her life: to be a mother and to be a teacher; at both she was exceptional. After graduating from Education at University of Manitoba, she had a 32-year career with Winnipeg School Division at many schools (including Donnelly Sunday School), where she met many friends and influenced the lives of countless children. Her proudest accomplishments were her two children Rhonda and Matthew. She was always their biggest fan at their many athletic endeavours. She’d often be seen – and heard – cheering loudly at Matt’s baseball, lacrosse and hockey games and would frequently fly to Ottawa to visit Rhonda and take in a curling game. It was not always about the games though, as Tammy appreciated the simple moments – a movie night with her kids, baking with family, and a home-cooked meal together; she especially loved celebrating Easter and Christmas, when she opened her home to all family and friends.

Like Tammy’s heart, her house was always open to her children’s friends. Her home was the place friends would gather for food, wine and laughter day and night. It was not uncommon for her kids to wake her up to chat upon returning home in the wee, small hours. Her kindheartedness will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Tammy’s life will be held on Sunday, May 15 at 1:00 pm at Harrow United Church, 955 Mulvey Avenue, Winnipeg.

Special thanks to the Carson family for their love and care. Thanks to the amazing staff at CancerCare Manitoba at Victoria Hospital and to St. Boniface palliative staff, who made her last days so special, and to Dr. Park who she always felt gave her the gift of a prolonged life.

In lieu of flowers please donate to CancerCare Manitoba.