Daphne Rosetta Constance Thomson (Nee MacLean)

On November 22, 2018, Daphne Thomson, loving wife of 70 years to William J. (Bill) Thomson, passed peacefully. She was mother to W. Bruce Thomson, Peggy Dopheide (Peter), and K.A. (Sandy) Thomson. She was the proud Nanny to Lorna Harvey (Elliot), Philip Dopheide (Melissa), Katie Groenheide (Kevin), Bram Dopheide (Mercy), Ben Dopheide, and Becky Dopheide. She was also the proud Great-nanny to 10 Great-grandchildren. Daphne was predeceased by her parents Donald and Emily MacLean and siblings Donnie Robinson, Alex Donald, Bill (Sonny) MacLean, and Pat Swanlund. Daphne (also affectionately known as Buddy, Auntie Buddy, Nanny- both to family and friends) was born in Winnipeg and grew up with her Mom, four siblings and Grandad on Walnut Street. She was a graduate of Gordon Bell High School which is where she met her future husband. They were both active participants in high school operettas and often performed together in numerous Gilbert and Sullivan productions. Daphne was also a high school athlete and was an accomplished high jumper, placing 2nd in the city finals. She was one of the ‘MacLean sisters’ as they were known, and they shared many wonderful and mischievous times growing up. Mom will be remembered as a very kind and generous person with a quiet strength and endurance. She loved to laugh and tease and could always be counted on to offer an old adage that would capture a situation perfectly. She enjoyed numerous hobbies; bridge and 5-pin bowling were two. But the ones that kept her most busy were baking, knitting, and crocheting. Many counted themselves lucky to be on her list for her baked treats and countless adults and children alike were the lucky recipients of her beautifully knit or crocheted blankets, toques, mitts and booties. Mom was active in church life both at St. Andrews and later First Presbyterian, contributing baking and knitting for various fund raisers. Daphne was the consummate mom and loved rearing her three children. Mom was a pet lover and the family home often included a dog or cat or sometimes both. Our cat Irish and dog Joey were two of her particular favourites. In addition to an active home life raising the family in River Heights, fond summer memories were formed at the family cottage on Dorothy Lake. Mom loved to host and visit and enjoyed a swim, game of scrabble, watching the hummingbirds, but mostly anything involving being surrounded by family and friends. Particularly memorable trips for Mom included Great Britain, France, Alaska, Hawaii, Tofino, and in later years annual winter escapes to Victoria. Mom will be remembered for her remarkable kindness and her indomitable spirit. She cheered for the underdogs in life and was selfless in her sharing and caring for others. A private family service will be held. Flowers are gratefully declined. Those wishing to commemorate Daphne may consider donations to Siloam Mission, Winnipeg Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.