Etta Thomas

It is with deep sadness we announce the sudden passing of our dearly loved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother on Saturday, September 26th. Etta was surrounded by her loving family as she peacefully passed away at the age of 86.

She is survived by her brother Don Rasmussen (Bernice), sister-in-law Hazel Roberts, children Bill (Brenda), Barbara, Karen (Michael Holroyd), Lorraine (Brian McLeod), and grandchildren Laura Wortley (Joel), Catherine Delaquis (Serge), Arthur and Brennan Holroyd, Thomas and William McLeod, and her great grandchildren Hillary and Quade Wortley, and Xavier and Maude Delaquis. In 2013, Etta was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Dave Thomas.

Born in 1929 to Arthur and Catherine Rasmussen, Etta and her younger brother Don, grew up in St. James. She enjoyed school, piano, elocution, shorthand and typing. After high school, she worked at an insurance firm where she met Dave, who she married in 1948.

Dave and Etta set up their home in Fort Garry and had 4 children: Bill, Barb, Karen and Lorraine. Etta was involved with Westridge Community Club, Home and School Association, Donnelly United Church, Brownies, and every other activity her kids were involved in. Dave worked as a lumber salesman and was promoted to a position in Woodstock Ontario in 1968.

In 1969, Dave and Etta moved back to Fort Garry where they opened their own business: Thomas Builders and Developers. Etta kept the books and kept the peace for the next 2 decades while the business and the family grew and thrived. In retirement, they traveled the world including Australia, China, Thailand, South America, and United States. Etta continued to volunteer with the Arthritis Society teaching others to cope with the effects of arthritis. They spent their winters in Arizona where Etta continued to make friends and be involved in her community.

Etta had many roles in her life but the one she most enjoyed was that of “mom”. She loved her children completely and without judgement. She was a role model for all her children as they have become the next generation’s mothers, fathers, aunts and uncles.

Etta’s strength of character made her the best kind of friend: she was honest, kind, compassionate, and considerate of others. With her great sense of humour and a knack for hosting parties, Etta made her home a welcome place for friends and family. She loved cooking and was a marvelous hostess.

Etta spent the last few years at Riverwood Square where, in spite of health challenges, she never complained. She again made many new friends who will miss her cheerful smile and sense of humour. The family would like to thank the staff at Riverwood and the healthcare aides Syed, Sarah, Precious, Edwina and Cindy for their support and kindness.

We invite friends to a service in her honour on Friday, October 2nd at 3:00 at the Niakwa Country Club at 620 Niakwa Road (off Fermor by Archibald) with a reception to follow. Officiating by John Oldham.

If friends so desire, contributions may be made to the Arthritis Society or a charity of their choice.