Mari-Ange Carman

Left to mourn her passing are her children: Raymond (Jeannine), Donna (James) Loney and Bernie (Monica); her grandchildren: Katie Loney (Randy), Jimmy (Kaitlyn) Loney, Jenny (Michael) Payment, Cheri Carman (Aaron), Shaun Carman and Christopher Carman; her great grandchildren: Carson and Isabella; her sister: Claudette (Frank) Sokolan; her sister-in-law: Georgia Lemoine; and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Raymond, daughter Cathy, and son in law Goldie Williams.

Mari-Ange was born to George and Aglae Lemoine in Teulon, MB. on June 8, 1929. She was raised on a farm north west of Inwood, MB in the Interlake region. She met and married Raymond on November 27, 1948. Shortly thereafter Raymond and Mari-Ange moved to Treherne, MB where they joined in a partnership with Raymond’s sister Kay and husband Leo Magnuson in the purchase and operation of the town creamery. In 1957 Raymond and Mari-Ange moved to Oak Bluff MB where they raised their family and spent all their married life. They purchased and ran the local general store and post office and shortly thereafter started operating school vans and buses.

Mari-Ange was very devoted and took great care of her husband and children while balancing duties of managing the store and post office when Raymond was away driving the vans and buses. Although somewhat shy and reserved in the beginning it became apparent this is what she was called to do. The store proved to be the local gathering place where many great friendships were made with neighbors. In the later years of store life, she became involved as a 4-H leader and together with Raymond volunteered at the newly built local recreation club hall. She deeply enjoyed square dancing and loved getting out on winter nights to socialize with other dancers. The years went by and it soon became apparent that both Mari-Ange and Raymond should retire. When the right opportunity arose, they sold the store and moved into a home in the development in Oak Bluff. Mari-Ange relished retirement as she now had more time for her passions which included sewing, gardening, baking and reading a good book. Raymond’s health was failing but Mari-Ange never wavered and continued to care for him at every turn.

In the spring of 2003 Raymond and Mari-Ange moved to Southpark Estates in Winnipeg MB. It was there that she cared for Raymond until his passing later in the fall. Through a generous outpouring of neighbours, she was able to make new friends who helped her during the rough times. She managed to maintain her independence, something she was especially proud of. She was able to continue her great love for all creations be it birds and animals, flowers or even tree leaves shimmering in the breeze.

In later years, due to failing health, Mari-Ange required additional care. The family wishes to express a special thanks to the management and staff of Despins Residence who offered love, care and understanding as Mari-Ange began the journey with her illness. A further thanks to those residents who welcomed our mother at what was surely a fearful time for her.

On the final part of her journey Mari-Ange moved to Misericordia Place Personal Care Home. God bless the management and staff for their compassion and care when attending to both our mom and the other residents. Mari-Ange’s final days were difficult but done with the utmost dignity.

Funeral Mass will be held at11:00 am on Wednesday February 7, 2018 at Mary Mother of the Church 85 Kirkbridge Drive.