Obituary of Marion Lois Halpen

May 31, 1929 – Verwood, Saskatchewan

August 21, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Marion Lois Halpen of Calgary, AB, passed away on Monday, August 21, 2023, at the age of 94 years.

Marion was born in Verwood, SK on May 31, 1929.  She grew up on the family farm, it was here she learned her love of animals and her many family traditions.  She went to Regina to live with her grandparents to complete high school and go to business college.  She started working at General Films where she met her lifelong friend (75 years!) Kay.

She moved to Calgary where she worked in the oil and gas industry.  Even then she loved to travel and enjoy football games with friends.  It was working at Petro Fina where she met Pat, they married in 1967 and raised two children, they were both very involved in their kids lives, from volunteering at school, to coaching soccer and hockey.  They were very focused on their community and had wonderful friends.  When dad passed away in 1983, she had two teenagers to finish raising.  She was always there for us teaching us about family and what is important.

Once her family was grown, Marion’s love of travel was once again sparked.  She literally travelled the world from Australia to most countries in Europe, South America, but her most memorable trip was to South Africa.  She always loved to hear stories of peoples travels and most often could say “I’ve been there”.  When she wasn’t travelling, she could be found leading and organizing hikes, trips and other activities for her seniors group, volunteering at her church McDougall United, working in her garden or watching the Calgary Flames.

Her family was everything to her and to hear about her kids, grandkids, nieces, and nephews would be the highlight of her day. Marion will be remembered for her energy, being fiercely independent, feisty, her fabulous sense of humour and most importantly her kindness. She was a beautiful soul.  We are grateful, blessed and better for having her in our lives.

Marion is survived by her daughter Kathleen, son John (Heather), granddaughters, Sadie and Eva; sister-in-law Rachel Weal, “favourite” nephews and nieces, Jeff (Dorrell), Jay (Crystal), Kelly (Shelley), Jacquie (Ken), Tracy (Trent); and by dear friends, Kay (Dave). She also survived by Pat’s family, sisters, Theresa, Kathleen and brother Mike (Carole).

Marion was predeceased by her husband, Patrick Halpen (1983), her parents, Jack (1962) and Iona (1997) Weal and her brother Howard Weal (2018).

Memorial Services will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, October 13, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Hospitality Centre at the Funeral Home. Graveside Service to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Marion’s family here.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Calgary, 800, 7015 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB  T2H 2K6, Telephone: (403)290-0110, www.alzheimercalgary.com.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Manor at Fish Creek for their kindness in moms care the last few years and the staff at the Foothills hospital for giving her grace and support in her final hours.

In living memory of Marion Halpen, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.