Obituary of Mary Catherine STOKES

December 21, 1921 – Semans, Saskatchewan November 10, 2018- Calgary, Alberta Mary Stokes passed away peacefully in Calgary, on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at the age of 96 years. She was an amazing Mother and cherished Nana to her seven grandchildren. Mary is survived by her daughters, Lorelie Noble and Shelley Stokes and her daughter-in-law, Sandy Stokes. She will also be lovingly remembered by her grandchildren, Carter Noble, Sierra and Mercedes Stokes-Heck, Jack Heck, Ian, Jeff and Graeme Stokes. Mary was predeceased by her son David Stokes and husband Bill Stokes. Mary lived a full and vibrant life. She was known for her smile, her generous and loving spirit. Her baking was legendary and it has been said that her memory will live on in her delicious carrot cake recipe. She was a resilient woman who valued family and education and hard work. She was born in Semans during the depression but often said these were the best years and their mother ensured they never felt deprived. One of seven children on the farm, her childhood was full of music, laughter and love. She married in 1947 in Regina and the young family moved to Calgary in 1958. A family home was established in St. Andrews Heights and she lived there for the next fifty-seven years. She began a career at the Foothills Hospital in 1967 which spanned the next thirty three years. When she retired at the age of 79, a STARS air ambulance helicopter was waiting and took her for a tour over the city. At the age of sixty-two she began her Bachelors Degree in Sociology at the University of Calgary and graduated ten years later at the age of seventy-two, all while working full-time at the Foothills Hospital. She took classes after work and on holidays, walking from the foothills Hospital to the University and back home to St. Andrews Heights. Mary enjoyed the interaction with her fellow students and we are sure they enjoyed the baking she brought to class. At her graduation, the Dean of the U of C singled her out in his address to tell her story. After her retirement she enjoyed travelling to see family in Ontario, Saskatchewan and British Colombia. She also enjoyed travel as one of the “Four Sisters” cruising to Alaska and the Caribbean, as well as travel with other family to Hawaii, Mexico, and Europe. Over the span of sixteen years seven grandchildren arrived and were the absolute joy of her life. She had a special and unique relationship with each one. She was so proud of all of their achievements. Mary was well loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She lived her life with love. Rest in peace Nana. A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at 11:00 a.m, at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Park Memorial, ., Calgary, AB) with reception to follow. Graveside to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter Telephone: (403)290-1552 or a Women’s Shelter of their choice