Obituary of Gladys Elaine Marshall

July 5, 1939 – Foam Lake, Saskatchewan 

January 22, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Gladys Marshall, of Calgary, AB, passed away on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the age of 84 years.

Gladys was born July 5, 1939, in Foam Lake, SK, and grew up on a farm nearby, without electricity or even a bedroom until high school.

She gained her teaching diploma while just nineteen years old, and after moving through small towns, she found a placement in Humboldt in 1962. Here she not only made lifelong friends, but also met George, who she married on August 23, 1966. They settled in Biggar, SK, where in addition to teaching, she was an active Kinette and Kayette member.

Later she would serve on boards and committees for other local community groups, from the United Church to Al-anon, and even the swim club. She was a fixture not only at the curling club, but all over town on her daily four-mile walks. She retired in 1989 and for the next 16 years, Gladys and George travelled extensively around North America in their RV, spending most winters in Mesa, AZ.

They enjoyed making many close friends during these travels, and Gladys could often be found in the pool with her water exercise club, singing in the choir, or hiking in the area. Notably, she did two “same day” hikes down the Grand Canyon in these times. She and George were avid square dancers and enjoyed meetups with other RV’ers at gatherings around the country.

In 2005, George and Gladys moved to Calgary to be closer to their son and his family. Here she built a new community through exercise, cards, church, and other groups. She took great interest in her granddaughters and their activities, attending all their acting and violin performances. Later on, and especially through her last years, she enjoyed their company as young adults. Through the lockdowns, she was able to tell her stories to them, and listened to them describe their studies and plans.

Her family was a central part of her life, and she remained close to her brother, in-laws, and their families throughout her life. She will be remembered with affection by many for her gentle, unassuming nature and generosity of spirit.

Gladys is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Bruce and Alexandra, her granddaughters, Lauren and Natalie; as well as sister-in-law Vivian Walden. She was predeceased by husband George, her brother Carl, and sister Alma.

A Celebration of Gladys’ Life will be held at St. Thomas United Church (100 Hawkwood Boulevard N.W., Calgary, AB) on Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Gladys’ service streamed live on the day of the service at https://youtube.com/live/WAH3zZcm-Os.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to St. Thomas United Church, https://stthomasunited.ca/giving/.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Gladys' family here.

In living memory of Gladys Marshall, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Crowfoot, 82 Crowfoot Circle NW, Calgary, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.