Gertrude Margaret Stephen

Margaret was called home to be with the Lord on Feb. 13, 2023 at the remarkable age of 108 years. Her strong faith supported her throughout her long life, and she firmly believed it was her duty to witness that to her family and others. She was generous in her financial support of many Christian organizations throughout her lifetime.

She will be lovingly remembered by her step-daughters Beverly Stephen (Dwayne Kinnaird) and Valarie Kuhtey; four grandchildren Colin MacRae (Marilee MacDonald), Matthew MacRae (Jennifer), Erin Kuhtey, and Emily Kuhtey (Spencer Frank); 3 Great Grandchildren Lily, Mya and Grace; nieces and nephews Charles Spaetgens (Lee), Robert Spaetgens, Victor Spaetgens (Maureen), Greg Spaetgens (Donata), Connie Berry (Jim), William Spaetgens and several great nieces and nephews.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents Sophie and Theodore Spaetgens, her brothers Theodore (Ted) and Harold Spaetgens, her nieces Anne McCormick and Peggy Phares, stepdaughter Patricia Cromarty, and her cherished husband Andrew (Andy) Stephen.

Margaret was born on Nov. 23, 1914 and was raised in Humboldt, Sask. After graduation, she attended Success Business College in Winnipeg, then worked as a Legal Secretary for the Canadian National Railway for 25 years. When she met Andy in 1969, she retired from the railway to be married, and to take her life in a new direction, being a happy wife, homemaker, and stepmother to Andy’s daughters. Margaret was a fabulous cook, often hosting Sunday dinners for the family, and making the most delicious pies! Andy and Margaret loved entertaining their many friends from the CNR and Khartum Temple. After Andy retired, they spent many winters in Florida and took several trips to Europe to visit extended family. She was an active member of Calvary Temple and the Khartum Ladies Auxiliary for many years. Margaret was extremely fortunate to be able to stay in her beautiful home until she was 102 years of age, thanks to Home Care and regular visits by the visiting Nurse Practitioner. A hospital stay in 2017 determined she would no longer be able to manage on her own there, so a change of residence to Calvary Place, and then River Park Gardens was in order. She was not happy at first, however came to accept this move with grace and humility. She enjoyed the attention she received from the caring staff at both nursing homes, especially on her birthdays! She enjoyed the Bingo games and other recreational activities offered, and in the end, was quite content being cared for there. The family wishes to thank the staff at both nursing homes for the wonderful care and attention Margaret received.

A celebration of Margaret’s life will take place on Tuesday, July 25th at 2PM at Thomson “In the Park”, 1291 McGillivray Blvd. in Winnipeg, with the Rev. Pastor Logan officiating. Live streaming for those who cannot attend in person will be available through Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home and Cemetery’s website. Interment at Elmwood Cemetery took place back in February shortly after she passed. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations may be made to Calvary Temple, Shriner’s Hospital, or a charity of their choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.thomsoninthepark.com for the Stephen family.