Obituary of Mary Elizabeth Donovan

DONOVAN: Mary Elizabeth Donovan (née Brockie) of Brandon, MB passed away peacefully on January 13, 2015 at Fairview Home. Mary was born on October 24, 1921 in Brandon, Manitoba to George and Winnifred Brockie. Her only sibling, Ruth, passed away in 1948. Mary's father, George Brockie, founded Brockie-Donovan Ltd, which Mary and her husband subsequently owned for many years. Mary was predeceased in 2000 by her husband of 57 years, Jack Donovan. Mary and Jack are survived by their three children: Marnie (Bert), Joanie, John. They are also survived by their two grandchildren: Michael, Kimberly (Chris), and their father: George Wright (Marie). Mary lived independently in her own home until 2013, when she chose to move to Riverheights Terrace. She had only been at Fairview Home for a short time before she passed away. Mary was always a proud Brandonite, and her strong group of friends continued lunching, coffee-ing, and of course golfing together on a daily basis well into their 80's with admirable energy and drive. Mary was actively involved in music in Brandon and surrounding area her whole life – singing with the Brandon Philharmonic, three church choirs over the years - First Presbyterian, St. Matthews, and Central United Church, and at weddings in her early years. Mary was also an involved organizer for local music festival competitions and designed scorekeeping programs for ladies' golf tournaments at the Brandon Rec Centre. She had a passion for genealogy, and was a great family historian. Over the years, Mary enjoyed involvement in a number of community organizations on her own and with her husband Jack. She enjoyed an active social life filled with good humour and fun. Aside from her family – she treasured her driver's license and golf. She will be remembered for many things, but most of all her independent spirit and fierce loyalty. The family will have a private ceremony, and a celebration of life will be arranged at later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's name to a charity of choice or to the Canadian Cancer Society, 415-1st Street, Brandon, MB, R7A 2W8.