Mrs. Audrey Ethel Woolley

Peacefully, after a sudden illness Audrey Woolley (nee Bramley) passed away surrounded by family on the morning of August 23, 2010.

Audrey was pre-deceased by her beloved husband Harold, her sister Margaret and brothers George and Bob Bramley.

Left to celebrate Audrey’s memory are her sons David (Wendy), and Robert; sisters Dorothy, Joan and Linda (who was like a sister to her); her grandchildren Christine (Alex) and Jonathan (Linda); great-grandchildren Jacob, Bradley and Malcolm; and many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.

Audrey was born on March 24, 1926 and raised in the West End of Winnipeg. Brought up during the depression, Audrey learned early to take pleasure in the simple things in life and cherished her friends and family.

During the Second World War, Audrey proudly worked on aircraft for the war effort at Trans-Canada Airlines. Like so many of her generation, this service was a defining event in her life and she often spoke of these years with warm remembrance.

Shortly after the war, Audrey fell in love with a handsome young soldier named Harold Woolley and the two were married in June 1950. Together, they forged an incredibly loving partnership that would last until Harold’s death in 2008.

After adding sons David and Robert to their busy household, Audrey returned to the workforce, working in retail with the Bay and then for many years with Eaton’s. She loved her work and the wonderful friends she made at the store.

Although Audrey was many things to many people, all knew her to be an exceptionally talented baker and cook. Her holiday meals were phenomenal and her cookies (especially the Imperials) were known (and devoured) across Canada. Audrey loved being in the kitchen and until her very last day, she made a point of getting up early to start her baking.

Audrey was also known to be the personification of class and simple elegance. She was forever writing thank-you notes, and sending cards and gifts to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.

Although she left us too early, Audrey lived life to the fullest right up to her last moments. She wouldn’t have had it any other way.

We wish to extend our deepest thanks to the staff at the Health Sciences Centre and at Riverview for their wonderful care and their respectful assistance to Audrey and our family during her last hours.

A celebration of her life will be held at Thomson Funeral Home on Thursday, August 26, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. with Rev. Marc Whitehead officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Thomson Funeral Home, Winnipeg, MB.