Colleen Garrow

Born on January 22, 1935, in Kenora. She spent her early years moving from place to place as her father worked on the railway as a telegrapher before eventually returning to the place she always called home.

In 1954, Colleen married the love of her life, Stanley Garrow. Together they raised two children and built a life defined by laughter, devotion, and deep family roots. She is now reunited with Stanley, her son Paul, her parents, and all her siblings.

Left to miss her more than words can express are her daughter, Carol (Bill) Ranger; her grandchildren, Jonathon (Amy) Ranger and Leslie (Bradin) Seniw; and her treasured great-grandbabies, Rylan, Kenzie, Keegan, and Walker, who were the absolute lights of her life. Gram welcomed everyone with open arms. She loved Amy and Bradin as though they had always been part of the family. She formed bonds that were true, deep, and lasting. She never let more than a few days pass without seeing the great grandkids, worried they might forget her, though of course they never could.

Gram was always there, willing to lend a loving hand to whoever needed it. Whether she was watching the kids, taking care of the dogs, moral support, or simply being that steady, loving presence, Gram showed up without hesitation.

Winter was Gram’s favourite season, and she was still driving her sled at the end of last season and planning to this season. Wild rice sausages, a hot Tottie for her and hot chocolate for us “to warm up your innards” were a must-have out ice fishing. She enjoyed boat rides and loved fishing, even though she always joked she would sink like a rock. Gram always had a puzzle on the go. She enjoyed lunches with friends, sitting on the deck, visiting with family and friends and just being around the people and animals she loved dearly. She adored watching the birds at her feeder, especially her grey jays and chickadees, and had ongoing battles with the chipmunks and squirrels she insisted were out to torment her.

Her home was filled with small traditions that became beloved pieces of everyone’s hearts. Everyone’s birthdays were celebrated with her angel food cake, made with Swan’s Down because it made the best cakes. Skittles in the glass dish. Slush in the freezer. Gushers tucked in her purse for the kids. Treats for the dogs. She made the best tea (which only Great Gram could make) and the best poached eggs with farm-fresh eggs. Comforts no one will ever be able to recreate quite the same.

Gram had a nickname for absolutely everyone, kids, adults and dogs, rarely calling anyone by their given name. Her humour, warmth, independence, and unwavering love shaped every relationship she had. The memories she created, the laughter she sparked, the traditions she carried, and the comfort of her presence will stay with her family forever.

Gram did not want a service, so we have decided to celebrate her extraordinary life by taking her out ice fishing for her birthday and having a Weiner roast with family and friends. We know this is exactly what she would have wanted.

Please raise a glass of red wine in honour of Gram.