Mary Elaine Heinicke

MARY ELAINE HEINICKE 1943 - 2019 By the time you read this, I will have passed away peacefully at home with my close friend Helen Miller and my pet dog Rooa to comfort me in my last days. Rooa is the last of five dogs and seven cats who have given so much love and comfort over many years. I was born in Winnipeg in 1943. I attended Lord Roberts School (for only a few months), Isaac Brock School (for 8 ½ years) and Daniel McIntyre Collegiate Institute for high school and graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree in 1964. I had a long and varied career with the federal government which included nine different departments/agencies in different locations across the country. A highlight was a yearlong exchange in Britain where I obtained a Certificate in Management Studies from the University of Oxford and worked in the British civil service. After my retirement, my volunteer passion was the St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog Program, which I participated in for almost twelve years. For the first six years my dog/s and I volunteered as a team. I also began taking on administrative work for the Therapy Dog and First Aid Programs, and this work evolved into my coordinating the Therapy Dog Program. I also was involved in many other volunteer activities, including many years as a Humane Society volunteer, but found my niche in the Therapy Dog Program. I have been predeceased by my parents, Vera and George Heinicke, and my brother, Allan and sister in law Elizabeth Heinicke. I leave my love to my nephew (Patrick) and great-nephews Aodren and Gaëlen, and to my niece Sheila and great-nephew Andrew. Also especially to my friend, Helen Miller of Ottawa (who has been a dear sister to me), her sister Marilyn, her daughter Alison and son in law Stuart and their children Sarah and Liam. Helen and I have shared so much over the past 60 plus years that we have known each other. Many thanks to those (medical staff/professionals, neighbours/friends and others) who have been so supportive during my last months. I am so grateful to you all. At my request cremation has taken place and there will be no service. Adding to Elaine’s words above, Helen wishes to thank the members of the WRHA Palliative Care team and the Manitoba Provincial MAID team, and the staff of Home Care Assistance, who improved Elaine’s last days beyond measure. St. John Ambulance MB, NWT & NU region wishes to express their sincere thanks for Elaine’s dedication, generosity and commitment to the Therapy Dog program.