Jean Thomas

Thomas, Helen Jean (nee Caldwell, Vopni)

1916-2014

Jean Thomas passed away peacefully at Lions Prairie Manor, on August 5, 2014 at the age of 98 years.

Predeceased by parents Nellie and Harry Caldwell, husbands, Bill Vopni and Carleton Thomas, son John Vopni, stepson Carleton Thomas, and step grandson Dean Thomas. Jean is survived by her sister Anne Walkey; daughters Helen Willison (Leonard), Dorothy Mills (Terry), Shirley Bodie (John); daughter-in-law, Gloria Keeling (Elgin); stepdaughter, Sally Thomas and honorary family member, Ian MacKenzie.

Jean was Grandma to 12 grandchildren,16 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. Born in Wellwood Manitoba on June 29, 1916, Jean enjoyed a happy childhood there. After completing grade twelve, Jean earned her teaching certificate at Normal School, Winnipeg and taught at Wingham and Glencove Schools until her marriage to Bill Vopni in 1940. Bill and Jean lived in Carberry until they moved to Portage la Prairie in 1946. Jean was genuinely interested in the lives of others and made many friends while serving the Portage community in a variety of volunteer roles. She had an active life playing hockey and baseball in Wellwood and in Portage she enjoyed golfing, curling, swimming and especially her morning walks at Island Park. She was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church, the Women's Missionary Society and the Ladies Evening Guild. She attended Rebekah Lodge #3, Royal Purple and was an active volunteer for Meals on Wheels. Jean was an accomplished singer who sang with the Sweet and Lows, The Carillon Singers and the Portage Senior Choir. She was often asked to be soloist at weddings, funerals and lodge functions and was church choir director for many years. Jean was awarded life memberships in the Portage Curling Club, and Hospital Ladies Aid.

The family would like to thank the staff at Lions Prairie Manor for their thoughtful care in Jean's final years. Appreciation also goes to those who took the time to visit Mom especially Miepe Verhoeven, her faithful friend.

The funeral Service for Jean will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Portage la Prairie on Saturday, August 9 at 11:00 a.m., followed by a light lunch. Burial will take place at Hillside Cemetery following the service and luncheon.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Jean's memory to the Lions Prairie Manor Foundation Inc, 24 - 9 ^th Street NE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3V4 or to First Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 17 Royal Road S., Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 1T8 or any charity of your choice.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com