Obituary of Marilyn Laura Thomson

THOMSON: Marilyn Laura Thomson passed away peacefully in her Brandon home on September 20, 2012. Marilyn leaves behind her loving husband Glen; children Don (Jennifer), Cheryl (John), and Garth (Deanna) and grandchildren Josh, Mary, Paige, Jossa and Jacob. Marilyn was born on December 14, 1937, in Portage La Prairie to Roger and Hazel Fox. She was pre-deceased by her mother, father and older brother James Bernard. Marilyn was raised in the Orangeville District where she attended Orangeville School and Austin High School. Marilyn then moved to Winnipeg where she was employed by the Canadian Imperial Bank after completing her high school studies. She met her husband of 54 years, Glen Thomson, during their time at Austin High School. They were engaged in Winnipeg and moved to Brandon following their wedding on June 14th, 1958, in Austin, Manitoba. They purchased their Brandon home on Queens Avenue in 1960 which remained their home to present. Marilyn and Glen developed their respective careers while building valued friendships in their new community. Marilyn relished the opportunities to host parties at their new home as well as returning to her rural communities of Austin and MacGregor to dances, curling bonspiels, and to visit family. She continued to work at Imperial Bank, eventually becoming manager of current accounts. Marilyn chose to put her professional career on hold while staying home in Brandon and raising their three children. She made the house a home built on the foundation of love, respect, and kindness, always adhering to the Golden Rule. Marilyn loved making a big deal during the special days throughout the year. Christmas was her favorite holiday. It was tradition for her to wake up the house to see what was under the tree, a trend that continued with her grandchildren to this day. Christmas traditions were never forgotten and special attention to all details of the day were certainly not overlooked. Marilyn was an avid cook and enjoyed baking for loved ones and neighbors alike. Like her Mother, she preferred creativity as opposed to following the recipe by the book. Her popcorn balls at Halloween and Nuts and Bolts any time of year were legendary throughout the community. Marilyn loved to sew and create outfits for her and the children. She prided herself on making something special to wear for herself or the family when it couldn't be found at the local stores. Marilyn supported many of Glen's passions over their years together including the creation of Glen-Mar Farms in Austin that they began in 1970. Weekends usually involved loading up the family and helping out with whatever was needed at the time. This support and sacrifice was a constant reminder to all of the family members that "we are in this together" right up to present day. In the early 1970's, Marilyn began working outside of the home by selling Fuller Brush products door to door in the Green Acres community. She also began to work part-time in the food and beverage services at the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba grounds which would later become the Keystone Centre. Her strong work ethic and exceptional interpersonal skills saw her promoted through the ranks to the position of Food and Beverage Manager in the Keystone Centre. She was extremely proud of managing a large team of part time staff which grew with the expansions of the centre. During her tenure, the Keystone Centre successfully hosted the 1993 Brier, the 1995 World Curling Championships, and the 1997 Canada Summer Games as well the annual Royal Manitoba Winter Fair and Summer Fair and Exhibition. She was remembered by employees for her fairness, attention to detail and that Marilyn worked alongside her employees rather than feeling like they just worked for her. After leaving the Keystone Centre in 1998 she relished being a Grandmother to her five grandchildren in Brandon. She provided loving care on school sick days and busy sporting weekends. Marilyn enjoyed baking unique treats for each that made them feel special when they visited. She traveled the province with Glen supporting her family at the gym, rink and field where her presence was always appreciated. Marilyn often beamed with pride when talking about her grandchildren's, children's and husband's accomplishments. Marilyn was an active retiree who became an early morning fixture at the Curves Gym where she just recently was acknowledged for having over 1,600 workouts. This was a true indication of her commitment and dedication to the goals that she set and how she attained them. She enjoyed her Tuesday morning coffee and lunch group where she shared many stories and laughter with old and new friends alike. Marilyn and her husband enjoyed traveling to visit friends and relatives. A winter highlight was always their extended winter trip to Texas and Florida to enjoy the warmth, sunshine and family. Marilyn's interment service was held at the Austin Cemetery on September 26th. A celebration of her life took place at the Central United Church in Brandon on the same day. Rev. Shannon McCarthy presided over each service and eloquently spoke to many of the endearing qualities of Marilyn. Her two sons, Don and Garth, gave a warm, loving and descriptive picture of her life while Bill Stadnyk, long time neighbor and friend, spoke of the many memories and recollections they had with Marilyn. Marilyn will be lovingly missed by all, the one who laid the foundation for a strong family, remembered all special days, and loved her family and friends dearly.