Laura Mae Walters

LAURA WALTERS of Assiniboia, SK, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2011, in Moose Jaw Union Hospital. She is survived by daughter, Luana (Barry) Gillies of Windermere, BC; brother Howard (Engsie) Van Dusen of Weyburn; daughter-in-law Rita; grandchildren: Jason (Lisa) Walters, Barton Walters, Gerri Anne Walters, Tyler Walters, Cam (Renee) Gillies, Joanne Gillies, Graham Gillies, Nadia Gillies, and 12 great grandchildren. She was predeceased by husband, Cy in 1975; son, Cyril in 2003; daughter-in-law Gertrude Ann in 1981; brothers Darl and Roy Van Dusen, sisters Florence Green and Edith Atwell, infant grandson Barton Craig and companion of many years, Les Coote.

Laura was born October 8, 1920 in Griffen, SK, to parents Eva and Syl Van Dusen. She attended school at Happy Hill near Melaval. She completed Grade 12 and later took hairdressing and business courses in Regina. She married Cy Walters on September 26, 1940. After he was called to the Army in 1941, Laura accompanied him to Kingston, ON, where their first child, Cyril, was born. From here they were stationed in London, ON. Cy was discharged from the Army in 1945 and they moved to Assiniboia to work with her parents at S&E Auto Supply. Three years later, they started in business on their own, Glass and Auto Wrecking, and soon added new and rebuilt products. In that same year, a daughter, Luana, was born. Their business prospered in the same location as the present Cy’s Auto Glass. Laura and Cy worked alongside each other and Laura soon gained a reputation for being knowledgeable and proficient in meeting the needs of customers. She also became immersed in Cy’s curling world and curled herself for many years. Laura was an active member of the local IODE chapter, Club 55 and the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxillary. She was appreciated for her interest in visiting Legion members, in the hospital or home bound. Laura maintained a love for cars and enjoyed driving. She was quick witted and a master of the one liner. She was a loyal and reliable friend and enjoyed community events. She also enjoyed numerous travel adventures around the world.

Funeral Service was held at St. Paul’s United Church on September 4, 2011, led by Lori Klein and Les Wilcock. Pallbearers were Jason, Craig, Joshua and Jonathan Walters, Graham and Cam Gillies. A Guard of Honor was formed by members of the Royal Canadian Legion, Assiniboia Branch #17. Interment in Mount Hope Cemetery, Assiniboia, SK. Donations in Laura’s memory may be made to St. Paul’s United Church in Assiniboia or Camp Easter Seal at Watrous, SK. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia, SK. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.rossfuneralservice.com