Royal was predeceased by her parents Allan and Opal King.
She leaves to celebrate her life, her husband of 56 years, Robert Lewthwaite, her children; Leslie (Larry) Bailey, Brad (Terri) Lewthwaite, four grandchildren: Taylor, Matthew Bailey, Jessica (Chase) Caldwell and Samantha Lewthwaite; she is also survived by her siblings: Brian (Bev) King, Dale (Tom) Webb and Janice (Larry) Keene, her sister-in-law and brother-in-law Peggy and Bob Patterson; she will be missed by her numerous nieces, nephews and many good friends.
Born in Saskatoon, Royal and her parents experienced separation during the war, with her Dad overseas and her Mom, working as a RN in Toronto. During this time, Royal lived with her doting grandparents. Following the war, her family settled in Prince Albert where she acquired siblings, enjoyed her childhood and completed her education. Following high school, Royal trained at the Grey Nuns Hospital in Regina, completing her nursing diploma. Around this time, she met Robert and they were married and moved to the family farm near Sintaluta in 1963.
Farm life was a new experience for the city girl; however, in true Royal fashion, each new challenge or experience was tackled with quiet tenacity, she adjusted to outdoor plumbing, horses on the veranda at night, and learning to run a farm household and a variety of farm machinery. Royal and Robert shared a strong work ethic, working hard when there was work to accomplish, but taking time to enjoy life when work was done. In winter, they curled and attended community functions, and in summer, there was golfing, camping and fishing with family and friends. Royal and Robert shared an interest in travel, recognizing that life is short and the world is large with a great deal to see. They were fortunate to travel to many locales, always interested in the new experiences they might have, and what could be around the next corner.
Royal loved having her family around and when they built their retirement home at Katepwa it offered space for the whole gang to be together. Many great times were had ‘at the lake’ with family and friends. For many years, Grandma/Nana would have her grandchildren come stay in summer. The kids looked forward to her annual ‘Boot Camp’ for the grandchildren, which was afternoons at the beach, endless water balloon fights, campfires, lots of giggling and fun.
Royal was a kind and loving Mom, wife and friend, she often put others before herself. Her time on earth was too short for those of us she left behind.
A celebration of Royal’s life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Katepwa & District Lions Club, Box 130, Lebret, SK S0G 2Y0
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