Margaret Elizabeth Heather

Marg is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Ian; her sons, Grant (Sheri) and Graham (Ashley), her granddaughter Madison, and sister, Janet, as well as a wide circle of family and friends whose lives she touched with kindness, wisdom, and grace. The love she gave so freely to us all will continue to guide and inspire us every day.

Her life was a beautiful tapestry of selflessness, joy, and unwavering devotion. Marg graduated from the University of Winnipeg with an Economics degree, and worked for Manpower & Immigration Canada for nearly 10 years, before taking on the role that would bring her so much joy: stay-at-home Mom. Ian and Marg were married July 3, 1971. She was the heartbeat of her family, always putting Ian and her boys’ needs before her own. Marg was the gentle voice of reason, the steady hand that comforted us, and the anchor of our home. Her organizational skills were second to none, and she always made sure that dinner was ready (and some chocolate chip cookies for dessert) and kept the family on track even while everyone was going in different directions with all their various pursuits. There was no challenge too great or no moment too small for Marg to give her whole heart into. Her steady presence guided us, her organization kept us moving forward, and her love left a lasting impact, shaping who we are today.

Marg was an avid sports fan, enjoying the Jets and Bombers, but more than anything, she loved watching Grant & Graham compete in all their sports over their lives. She often acted as head cheerleader and chauffeur to and from practices, games and refereeing. In 2007, Marg added the title of ‘Grandmother’ to her resume, when Madison was born. She doted on Maddie and cherished watching her grow into the young woman she is today.

Outside their home, Marg served her community with the same quiet strength and dedication, showing us all the positive impact of volunteerism and involvement. Her commitment was demonstrated in many ways: first at Sunday School, then through her long-time service on the Board at Kirkfield-Westwood CC, assigning referees & timekeepers for St James Minor Hockey and later handling ice scheduling, serving as a referee assignor for Winnipeg Minor Hockey, being the founding registrar of the KW Skills Camp, and sitting on numerous school committees - from parent council to band committee and eventually grad committees. Marg never missed an opportunity to be present and a part of her boys’ lives or getting involved when help was needed at the school or in the community. Marg & Ian shared much recognition for their volunteer work, much of which would not have been possible without her unwavering support.

Once Grant & Graham were done high school, Marg decided she needed a new pursuit and took on the position of Executive Secretary (2001-2016) for the Winnipeg West Rotary Club where she continued to build the community and help those in need through Samaritan initiatives. Though often behind the scenes, her presence was felt by many, and her kindness never went unnoticed. She believed deeply in helping others and embodied the very spirit of generosity and community that Rotary stands for. In recognition of her dedication, she was made an honourary member in 2016 upon her retirement from the Club.

Besides being with her family, Marg really enjoyed traveling and exploring new places. Margaret and Ian enjoyed so many special trips with their boys, as well as on their own or with family and friends in their retirement years. Their adventures included camping throughout Canada and the USA, visits to Hawaii, Haiti, Florida, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Las Vegas, as well as cruises through the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama and along the Rhine River through Europe. Marg loved the thrill of seeing new places, always returning with cherished memories, stories to share and plenty of pictures to catalog.

When she wasn’t volunteering or keeping her family in order, Marg could be found spending her free time gardening at the home she and Ian lived in for almost 50 years, marching through Westwood on one of her daily walking routes — rain, shine, or snowstorm — and playing bridge with the “Westwood Bridge Ladies”, a hobby and group she enjoyed being part of for over 35 years.

In their retirement years, Marg and Ian loved attending “Old Time Dances”. They travelled all over Manitoba to attend and enjoy the music, food and camaraderie of these nights. Sharing her gift of organization, Marg even helped Ian create a dance calendar that they emailed to their dance contacts every year.

In 2023, Marg & Ian moved to the Link, and quickly again established a community by getting involved in various committees. Marg joined the choir, which performed at Christmas events and on Wednesday Music nights. There, they loved participating in happy hours, games nights, bbq events, and other gatherings – never missing an opportunity to socialize with others in the building.

Margaret had a way of making everyone feel valued and loved. Her legacy is not just in the things she did, but in the love she gave, the lives she touched so deeply, the warm smile she always wore, and the countless memories she leaves behind. Marg always welcomed people to their home and never missed an opportunity to invite family and friends for a meal and a visit.

As we say goodbye to this incredible woman, we will carry her spirit with us—her love, her strength, her selflessness and kindness. She was a beacon of light in our lives, and though she may no longer be physically with us, she will forever live on in our hearts.

The family wishes to thank Jennifer W from Palliative Care, who was so supportive over the last year, as well as Jenn & Carla for the care and assistance they provided in helping manage the past year at home. They also extend their gratitude to Drs. Debroni & Xi, along with all the nurses and aides on unit 3E at Riverview Health Centre, for their care and compassion as Marg completed her journey there.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 29, 2025 at 11:00am at Neil Bardal Funeral Center at 3030 Notre Dame Ave., where all who loved her are welcome to honour her beautiful legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to CancerCare Manitoba, Riverview Health Centre Foundation Palliative Care Unit 3E, St. Boniface Hospital Foundation, or Winnipeg West Rotary Club Golden Rainbow Fund - an organization dear to Marg’s heart - to continue her work of kindness and service to others.

Rest in peace, dear Margaret – our Mama bear, Margie. Your love, your light, and your giving spirit will forever guide us.