It is with sad hearts that we announce that our Mom passed away peacefully at The Meadows in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, on Saturday, June 1st, 2024. Blanche was born on March 25, 1933. She was 91 years young. She was raised in Dollard, SK. She grew up with her mom Delima, dad Paul, and 5 sisters: Lucille, Jeanne, Edna, Yvonne, and Irene. She then moved to Ponteix to take her Grade 12. It was there after graduating that she began working at The Royal Bank. It was through the Catholic Youth Club that she met Art and fell in love. They were married on April 14, 1955. Together, they started their life by raising 5 sons and a daughter: Pat, Denis, Gerry, Pauline, Bob, and Don. Mom stayed at home raising the kids for many years, as was the life for many moms in those days. She loved to curl, bowl, and go on outings with Dad. Through the years, she was active with the Church and gathered with the wives of the Lion Club members. When her children were older, she once again worked at the Royal Bank for a few years, as an Educational Assistant at the Ponteix High School, and as an Assistant Librarian for the town library.
Sadly, Blanche was widowed at 61 years old. Art passed away suddenly 3 days after their 40th wedding anniversary. Then, 4 years later, she lost her youngest child Don to a sudden accident while he was serving in the military. This was a hardship that was tough to overcome. She never showed her grief, but a part of her had changed forever. She was a very quiet person but was always quick to witty remarks and sayings. She never turned down an offer for an outing with her friends. She thoroughly enjoyed going to Stars for Sask concerts and occasional trips to the casino. Mom suffered a loss once again when she lost her best friend Terry to cancer. Mom’s struggles became real, and dementia began to affect her ability to manage at home alone. It was in 2010 when she moved into Bridges in Ponteix. She loved all the activities they offered and was introduced to new friendships. When Bridges was unable to remain open, Mom moved into The Foyer St. Joseph in Ponteix in November of 2014. Another move that she handled gracefully, starting new friendships and reuniting with other friends from years before. She loved colouring, bingo, puzzling, doing crafts and activities, but MOST of all, a cold beer. Mom had a wonderful sense of humour. She was diagnosed in February of 2023 with breast cancer. It was in November of 2023 when Mom moved to The Meadows in Swift Current, where she spent her last six months. Once again, she gained the hearts of many there. She never complained and approached her end of life gracefully. It was 25 years to the day that her youngest son died. We say he came to take her home. We are so very grateful and blessed to have so many caregivers in Mom’s life. They were very helpful in keeping her spirit for life shining every day.
Blanche was predeceased by her Mom and Dad, husband Art, her son Don, grandson Darren, granddaughter Kandice, and her sisters Lucille, Jeanne, and Yvonne. Blanche leaves behind her children: Pat, Denis (Sandra), Gerry (Lily), Pauline (Greg), and Bob; and her sisters Edna and Irene. She was blessed with 10 grandchildren. She was also known as Big Bama to her 6 great-grandchildren. She will be deeply missed. CHEERS to You in Heaven!
Blanche’s funeral mass was held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at Notre Dame d’Auvergne in Ponteix, SK with Father Melchor of Shaunavon officiating. Memorial donations can be made to the Foyer St. Joseph Foundation, Box 600 Ponteix, SK S0N 1Z0. Arrangements entrusted to Piché-Hawkins Grondin Funeral Chapels Assiniboia - Gravelbourg. A special thank you for the exceptional care Mom received at Foyer St. Joseph and The Meadows. We are deeply grateful to all Mom's friends and family who supported her throughout the years.
