Margaret Lesperance

On August 19, 2021, Margaret Rose Marie Lesperance passed away at the age of 92.

Margaret was predeceased by her parents John and Rosie (Woychyshyn), infant brothers Edwin and Frederick, brothers Anton, Melford, and brother-in-law Eugene.

Margaret is survived by her children Clifford, Lavone (Marc), Valdine (Hugh), Renee (Robert), and Darryl, grandchildren, Shannon (Graham), Bonni (Sean), Sherrilyn (James), Sara (Aaron), Larissa, Cara, and Charles, great grandchildren, Ethan, Brayson, and Gavin.

Margaret is also survived by siblings Lorne (Marlene), Sam (Sylvia), Nelson (Leisa), Evelyn (Sadley), Josephine, Vivian (Gerry), Ronald, and sisters-in-law Phyllis, and Rose, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Margaret grew up on a farm near Shoal Lake, Manitoba during the depression. Being the eldest daughter in a family of twelve children brought immense responsibility. Her capacity for caring and her clear concern for others was certainly shaped by her early life experiences. Her education began in a one room country school, followed by boarding in town and correspondence. Margaret, called into teaching during grade 11, taught on permit for two years. Margaret formalized her career with Normal School forming many lifelong friendships. At Brandon University Margaret earned her Bachelor of Teaching, Bachelor of Education, and Special Education Certificate. Margaret taught in several rural and colony schools throughout Manitoba and one year in Kelowna, B.C. She also taught Special Education at The Manitoba Developmental Centre. She was a lifelong learner, and lifelong teacher.

Devoted to helping others, she had an ability to reach out and connect with anyone. She

listened non-judgmentally, gave comfort, guidance, and encouragement regardless of the situation. She saw good in everyone.

Margaret loved all types of dancing, music, talk radio, gardening, and travelling especially when there was an opportunity to visit family. She was civic minded, she saw importance in following city happenings and current world events. She took great delight in hearing of her former students’ lives.

Margaret was a writer, an active member of Nightwriters, and had several short stories published in various prairie newspapers and magazines. Documenting her life experiences was dear to her heart. Margaret completed Volume 1-”Szwaluk Family History” and ensured each family member received a copy. Margaret was preparing ideas and stories for Volume 2.

Always involved in various organizations, she often served on executive committees. Margaret had significant involvement and left a life legacy with The Prairie Mountain Museum, Permit Teacher Re-unions, and Toastmasters.

A quote from Margaret:

Toastmasters- It attracts people who want to better themselves, want to better their community, and better their relationships. It’s just good all around, it makes better citizens, better communities, and a better world. Special Thanks goes out to Margaret’s extended Toastmaster family, and especially Thank You to Linda Ducharme.

A Celebration of Margaret’s life will be held at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel from 2:00 – 4:00 pm on Saturday, August 28, 2021.

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