Born in Saskatchewan in 1923, Marion was the first child of Blanche and Phillip Francoeur. Being the eldest of, what became a family of 14 children, Marion learned her nurturing ways early in life. She left the prairies quite young, to find her way in the world and eventually made her way to Port Alberni, where many of her family had already settled. She began her new life and started work for MacMillan Bloedell at the Alberni Plywood Division. A great job, by today's standards. While working at the mill she met Linden Gardner. She quit her job at the Plywoods, got married and raised a family of 3 children: Pearl, Elaine, and Stan. Marion spent the rest of her life in this wonderful community. Marion was very active in her community. Volunteering for Meals on Wheels and the Catholic Women's League, were just two of the things she did besides raising a family. She was always giving someone a ride to Church, or visiting someone who couldn't get out much. She would complain about a low bowling score before you would hear her mention anything about her health problems. Marion was the best friend a plant could have. If someone had a plant that wasn't doing well, they could bring it to her to nurture back to health. A woman with a huge heart, She always had a big smile and a kind word for everyone. Everyone was made to feel welcome in her home. She will be missed by so many but especially her family: daughters Pearl (Wayne Ingham) and Elaine; son Stan (Kelley); grandchildren: Melanie, Erin, Owen and Aidan; brothers: Rene (Muriel) and Leon; sisters: Emily and Elise and many nieces, nephews, close friends and sisters & brothers-in-law.
She was predeceased by her husband Linden; brothers: Phillip, Albert, Loran and Armand; sisters: Jeanette, Rita, Leah, Dora and Isabell and granddaughter Alexandra.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, October 29, 2011 at Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, 4731 Burke Rd., with Father Stephen Paine officiating. Cremation has taken place. Stories and condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.chapelofmemories.ca. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at WCGH for the care given to Marion during her stay.
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