April 24, 1914 – January 15, 2020
On January 15, 2020, Ethel passed away in her residence in Winnipeg. She was predeceased by her husband the Honourable Archibald Stewart Dewar, brothers Ross and Arthur, and by her eldest son David Stewart. Ethel leaves behind her sons, Robert Andrew and Ian Ross; daughter-in-law Karen (nee Jensen); grandson Mark and wife Jane; granddaughter Nancy and husband Eric; great-grandchildren James and Jensen Dewar, and Oskar, Klaus and Bay Berglund; and several nieces and nephews.
Ethel was born in Weyburn Saskatchewan. Her family moved to Winnipeg shortly after she was born and except for two years in Ottawa, Ethel lived her life in Winnipeg.
Growing up in Winnipeg, Ethel attended Wolseley Elementary School, Laura Secord Secondary School and Kelvin High School. Music was always a large part of Ethel’s life. Playing the piano and singing in school and church choirs were her early passions. As a young adult Ethel was a soloist in several church choirs and performed at special events in community musical productions. She continued to enjoy music throughout her life and more recently, on occasion entertained her neighbours in the Boulevard at Shaftesbury Retirement Residence by playing the piano.
As a young woman, Ethel trained as a stenographer and was subsequently employed by the Government of Manitoba. At the outset of World War II Ethel married Archie. After Archie returned from a five-year deployment overseas, they started a family in St James. As a dedicated homemaker, she raised three sons. Over the years Ethel served in volunteer roles with Deer Lodge United Church, Meals on Wheels and various ladies auxiliaries. She also served over 20 years as the Dewar music teacher-in-residence.
Ethel will always be remembered for greeting all whom she met with grace and sincerity, a sparkling smile and a twinkle in her eye. Those who knew her well will cherish her memory.
A memorial service and reception will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24 at Thomson Funeral Home, 669 Broadway.
The family is grateful for and thank the staff of Shaftesbury Retirement Residence, and the many dedicated public and independent homecare providers who helped Ethel navigate through the last few years of her life. Special thanks is extended to Ms. Paulina Mendoza who was a constant and caring support for Ethel during her declining years.
Flowers are gratefully declined.
