Obituary of Mary Florence Cullen

It is with warm memories and sad hearts we announce, that after a long and well-lived life our mom, Mary Florence (Hickey) Cullen has died, and is now at rest in her spiritual home. She was a wonderful example to us all, and the centre around which the universe of our family turned. Little Mary Hickey (LMH) is the nickname our mother was given in grade 6 and we, her serious and respectful brood, continued to call her this in her later years which pleased our mother as it reminded her of days long passed. LMH loved to play scrabble, bridge; she was a crossword whiz and a voracious reader. She was also a competitive gin rummy player and loved to take her children’s money every chance she got! She leaves many grandchildren with fond memories and smiles remembering her as a sometimes mischievous and certainly fun loving, co-conspirator rather than the mother of their parents. Mary was born in Charlottetown, P.E.I. and raised in Calgary where she attended St. Mary’s Girls School. She met Martin Burke Cullen here in Calgary and married him on July 10, 1943. Mary and Martin eventually moved the family up north to Fort St. John, B.C. where they spent twenty plus years working and raising their seven children. In 1971 Mary and Marty moved to Kelowna where Mary sold real estate and enjoyed many friendships. In 1987 Mary returned to Calgary renewing relationships with old friends and taking pleasure in family. Mary is survived by her children Mary Jane Cullen, Deborah Cullen, Susan Cullen (Jeff), Michael Cullen (Lori), Daniel Cullen and Nancy Jo Cullen. Grandma Mary will also be greatly missed by eighteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Mary was predeceased by her husband Martin and sons Terrence and Burke. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Wednesday, June 3, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary’s Cathedral (219 – 18th Avenue S.W.) on Thursday, June 4, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Mary Cullen, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.