Sheila Howard

Sheila was born in Kenora on December 13, 1939 to Lempi and Alfred Sundin. She grew up in Laclu, where she enjoyed helping out with the chores on the family farm, riding her horse Prince and running her own trap line.

While working as a Nurses Aide, she met Ray. They dated for three years and married in 1959 and had two daughters. she worked for many years in the Woolworth pet department, and later at a pet store.

Before she became ill, Sheila had many interests. She was an active member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was an amazing cook. She was talented at leather work and sold many special order wallets, purses and belts. She was an avid golfer, winning the Beauty Bay Senior Women’s Championship 13 times and Women’s Club Championship 3 times! She also had a stash of bowling trophies from her bowling glory days. She did oil painting. For many years she travelled with Ray to Florida during the winter months. She also enjoyed many hours sitting with Ray, watching hockey, tennis and golf. She looked forward to the daily morning coffee group at McDonald’s. Sheila’s interests and hobbies were endless.

But what Sheila most treasured was time spent with her family. Nona cherished her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They were her pride and joy. She made everyone feel like the favourite and she was always their biggest cheerleader. She also adored her grand-dogs and enjoyed spoiling them.

Sheila’s last couple of years were tough for her, but she never lost faith or the ability to find hope or joy. She faced her challenges with such strength and courage. She was the center of Rays’s universe, he was at her side every day, holding her hand and cheering her on. Even though she could not speak, she taught us to accept things we didn’t understand and she showed how deeply she loved us. She was an inspiration to all who encountered her.

Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 66 years Raymond; daughter Lori (Dwayne) Prystay; daughter Adele (Rob) Kufflick; grandchildren Johnathan Kufflick, Emily (Tyler) Caron, Erin (Cashen) Tighe, Mitchell Kufflick (Janaki); great-grandchildren Grayson and Adelyn Caron; sister Audrey Larson, brother Larry (Crystal) Sundin; sister in-law Judy Sundin and brother in-law Harry Favreau; as well as many nieces, nephews and friends whom she loved dearly. Sheila was predeceased by her parents; brother Mervin Sundin; sister Cheryl Favreau; and numerous extended family members.

Sheila was not just a parent to her daughters, but also a best friend and source of boundless love. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and enduring love that will be cherished forever.

Our sincere thanks to the Pinecrest Unit Three staff who cared for Sheila during her time there, as well as the staff at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital for the care and compassion provided to Sheila during her most recent stay.

We are also beyond grateful to Donny and Rhoda Beasant for their love and incredible support to both Sheila and Ray during this difficult time. You have held us up more than know. To those who have reached out with your heartfelt thoughts, prayers and kind words, thank you.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers please donate to a charity close to your heart.