Josephine Roberts

It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in law, cousin and friend, Marie Roberts. Marie passed away on July 2, 2021 at the St. Claude Health Clinic with her family by her side at the age of 83.

Marie (nee Whittingham) was born in Killarney, Manitoba to Edna and Henry Whittingham.  She grew up in Deloraine, Manitoba, along side her younger siblings, Melvin and Donna until she met the love of her life, Howard Roberts.  They were married on September 1, 1958 at the United Church in Deloraine, Manitoba.  After marrying, they moved to Melfort, Saskatchewan and eventually to Portage la Prairie.  Marie and Howard moved to a farm site in the rural municipality of Portage where she resided until her long hospital stay.  Together they raised 3 beautiful children, Linda, Greg, and Brent.

Marie was a hard worker and a Jill of all trades.  She worked various jobs throughout her lifetime.  The list consisted of being a store clerk and a waitress.  She worked as a statement clerk for the Portage Credit Union.  She was a custodian at various places such as the Oakville Credit Union, Oakville Flower Shop, and Church of Christ.  Last, but not least, Marie was also a childcare provider.  Children always held a special place in her heart, and it showed.  She was a very nurturing and loving woman.  Everyone who was blessed enough to know her could see this.

Marie enjoyed life to the fullest.  She loved her Garage Sales, whether it was getting up early on a Saturday morning to go to them or holding them herself.  Marie would never turn down a chance to go shopping.  She was always curious as to what little treasures she would find.  She also enjoyed touring around and visiting with her friends and family.  If you were really lucky, she’d provide you with a delicious meal or baked goods.

Marie was a wonderful woman.  To say she had a heart of gold is an understatement.  She had a great sense of humour and loved a good joke, right up until her last days.  Marie was very patient and understanding.  Her strength and courage were admirable.  She was a fighter, maybe a bit stubborn at times, but only if she felt it was something worth fighting for.

Marie was predeceased by her husband Howard Roberts, parents Henry and Edna Whittingham, brother Melvin Whittingham, and uncle Gordie Smith.

Marie will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Linda Sproat (David), sons Greg Roberts (Julie) and Brent Roberts (Patricia), grandchildren Colin Sproat (Tianqi) and Brittany Rayhan (Mahadi), sister Donna Peters (Steve), sister-in-law Donna Whittingham, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

As per Marie’s wishes, a private family service will be held at Maple Grove Cemetery.

As expressions of sympathy, donations in memory of Marie may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation 1379 Kenaston Boulevard, Winnipeg, MB, R3P 2T5 or to PAWS 121 12th St. N.E. Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 4A2.

You left me beautiful memories

Your love is still my guide,

And though we cannot see you,

You’re always by my side.

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