Marilyn Joan Warkentin (nee Kletke)

Marilyn Joan Warkentin (nee Kletke)

Passed on March 11, 2023

April 26, 1940 – March 11, 2023    It is with our deepest sorrow we announce the loss of our family matriarch, Marilyn (often referred to as Marley). She was tragically taken from us in the afternoon of March 11 in Teulon. We were not ready and we had more to do together…

Marilyn was a Loving Wife, best friend and most recently a dedicated caregiver to her husband of 63 years Jack (Jacob) Warkentin, who will continue to ask for her.

A caring Mother, mentor and cherished friend to children; Wayne (Gloria), Tim (Lisa), Paul (Jane), Debrah (Chris), Terry (Tammy).

A devoted Grandmother giving her unconditional love to: Brandy (Dan); Cara(Curtis) David and Deanna; Dakota (Jeff), Gabe (Kristin), Zach (Mina); Jayme (Hanna), Sydney and Isaiah (Kat); Amanda (Cameron) and Rebeca (Kallem); Zane and Cole.

A playful Great Grandmother, who gave the best cuddles and hugs to Ashton, Payton, Bree and Claire; John, Sadie and Abbie.

Marilyn was the 6th child of 7 children of the late August and Edith (Schroeder) Kletke. Leaving to mourn her loss is sister Joyce Measor (Victoria BC).

She was a Sister in law, Aunt, Cousin and Friend. For all of you we ask for forgiveness as there are many to mention.

Marilyn was born and raised in Teulon, MB. Growing up on a family farm meant everyone had responsibilities as there were chores to be done, someone to feed, keep an eye on, or who needed help. She learned early in life about hard work, caring for others and helping your neighbour. She carried those traits throughout her life.

Marilyn and Jack united their love for each other on May 2, 1959. From then it didn’t take long before 2 became 7. The purchase of a small farm in the Teulon area where pigs, chickens, a milking cow and then a pony was added (much to her dismay). Marilyn would “hold down the fort” towing her “littles” along to accomplish daily chores while Jack held a fulltime job in Winnipeg. On the weekends Marilyn would pick up shifts as a Health Care Aide at Teulon Hunter Memorial Hospital. She was a dedicated part time employee to the Hospital for many years.

In 1977, with a new direction in life, Marilyn and Jack became owners and operators of a tourist resort on Lake of the Woods for the next 20 years. Portage Bay Camp was situated 32 miles by boat from Kenora ON. Marilyn didn’t waiver in her growing roles of chief cook, baker, hostess, meticulous kitchen and cabin cleaner, daily laundry (wringer washer style), yard maintenance, supply manager and director of operations.

Her children often reflect on the time when Mom wanted a very large boulder to be moved down the hill to the dock with her vision being this boulder would become a place to sit and put things on. Dad and a couple of the boys started the process of digging it up, Mom was on the dock at the time. The boulder was pried up and started rolling down the hill, much to Dad and the boys dismay here’s Mom at the bottom of the hill she grabbed a 5 foot metal pry bar and was running to the spot she wanted the boulder to stop. Dad and the boys were yelling “Mom get out of the way!” She proceeded to jam that bar into the ground, held on tightly, put one leg in front of the other and stopped that boulder on the exact spot she had wanted. That’s Mom. Have a goal in mind, plant your feet firmly on the ground and stand strong.

Marilyn established many friendships with returning guests, which carried on after they sold “Camp”. She had a gift of connecting with people and being a true listener. During those years Marilyn also realised a personal dream and graduated from nursing school with her Ontario Registered Nursing Assistant equivalent to LPN in MB. Such a proud day!

Following the sale of Portage Bay Camp Marilyn worked as the Coordinator for the Adult Day Program in Teulon. For a number of years she dedicated herself to helping to support Seniors who attended the program. Taking a holistic approach she offered days filled with meaningful activities, games, chair exercises and reminiscing.

Reflective in the personal choices Marilyn made, Community was important to her. She was active throughout the time her children were growing up by volunteering for the countless sports or school functions that needed helping hands, sitting on various boards and organising a variety of fundraising activities. All done through her desire that all children who wanted to be a part were given the opportunity. If she could take away a monetary barrier for families she would. She was a longtime member of the Teulon Women’s Institute; a board member of the Teulon and District Handivan along with The Teulon Seniors Resource Council; an active volunteer for Nova House in Selkirk, spending countless hours helping to establish the Twice Over thrift store. In her retirement she volunteered at the Teulon Food Bank, along with giving helping hands to special community events or just being called to help out with meal prep at Gateway Manor. She attended and completed the Spirit of Caring Course throug h the Interlake Regional Health with full intention of becoming a Spiritual Care Volunteer within her community. In her own way she used those skills in helping other family and community members at their end of life.

Marilyn, for lack of better words, was a thrifter- she loved saturday morning garage sales, a flea market and shopping at second hand stores. Most often finding treasures not only for herself, but for her work and family members. She was an avid reader, an incredible seamstress and crocheter, a hobby gardener, and a social butterfly. She curled for a number of years, mainly for the social aspect and being a part of this with her family members.

Marilyn and Jack developed many friendships within Crescent Creek Estates in Teulon. Looking forward to their gatherings at the centre and the “Patio Parties”. More recently, Marilyn moved to a suite in Gateway Manor where she was settling in and commented that it was the best move she could have made and was developing friendships there while still connecting with her Crescent Creek friends.

Family was of the utmost importance in her life. Marilyn would initiate and plan 2 important family gatherings each year, that we grew to think of as sacred family time. During the Warkentin Family August Long Weekend 2019, Marilyn and Jack renewed their vows in front of their children, grand- and great grandchildren for their 60th Wedding Anniversary; where we all honoured the head (and heart) of our family unit.

Those helping hands were always activated for her children and grandchildren for home renovations, moving, illness, and even to just clean or tidy and do laundry once in a while. She quietly showed up and often stayed a few days. Little did she know, the time she spent also helped us to plant our feet once more, stand firm and stay strong in order to carry on.

Those hands seemed to know……
Where and when support was needed;
They were never to be idle and most often giving.
They were meant to help others.

This was her “gift” to her family and her community. It was done without her ever having the need nor want of recognition for it.

Marilyn’s wish was for a private family service. A celebration of life for immediate family will take place this summer in Kenora.

The Family has greatly appreciated all the community support we have received and invite those who wish to collectively share their memories, love and support, to do so on Ken Loehmer Funeral Services Tributes and Obituaries Site.

Should you feel inclined, please honour Marilyn’s memory by donating to The Teulon Food Bank or MADD.


Comments

Dear Wayne,Tim,Paul,Debbie &Terry Our hearts are broken for you all in the loss of your wonderful, irriplaceable Mom. The rock metaphor from Portage Bay, truly captured the essence of our special friend, as we also deeply mourn her passing. We last saw your Mom uptown in January and shared family news. As we were parting, your Mom's eyes were getting misty and I gave her the biggest hug ever, not knowing it would be our last. Our thoughts and love go out to you, your Dad, and all your family at this most difficult time for you all. In deepest sympathy, Uncle Roger & Aunty Edith


EDITH BOUVIER

We were so sorry to hear of Aunt Marilyn's passing. Although we did not see her very often, when we did it was like we had been together only a week ago. She was that kind of a person - so easy to talk to. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire extended family.


Vic & Judy Warkentin

Our sincere condolences to Jack and family. Marilyn was a wonderful person and a great friend. our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace my friend. Charlie and Marie O'Halloran


Marie O'Halloran

Our sincere condolences to Jack and family. Marilyn was a wonderful person and a great friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rest in peace my friend. Charlie and Marie.


Marie O'Halloran

So sorry to hear about Aunty Marilyn's accident. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Though it has been many years since I have seen you all, I have thought about you all fondly. Please accept my condolences. Brigitte Toews (Bouvier)


Brigitte Toews

Thank you cousins for the wonderful tribute to your Mom. I remember Aunt Marilyn as a person with a smile on her face. A person with enthusiasm and hospitality. Peace to you at Easter and through the years as you reflect on her legacy.


Tom and Teresa Warkentin - Saskatoon

My sincere condolences to you and your family Wayne, may the memories of this lovely lady keep you strong. Her smile was the brightest!


Marie Killbery

What a beautifully written tribute. She will be missed by so many. Offering my sincere sympathies to Jack and your family.


Alan Campbell

Marilyn was a remarkable friend always willing to help. I will miss her and her support.


Anna Pazdzierski

Our deepest condolences on the loss of Marilyn. She was a remarkable woman who was blessed with a loving family, a life full of adventures and a strength of character which will endure in her children. We are saddened to hear of her loss and wish all those who loved her comfort in knowing they were privileged to be part of her life.


John and Tessa Kirinic

We were saddened to hear the passing of Marilyn. Although we new Jack & Marilyn for severally years, she was a very special, kind & gentle person who will be missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jack and family. Roman & Wendy Pietrus


Roman & Wendy Pietrus

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jack, Wayne , Tim, Paul, Debbie and Terry and their families . Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time. Agnes Warkentin and Joyce & Don Cassie


Joyce Cassie

We are so very sorry to hear of Mrs. Warkentin’ s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.


Janis and Bob Davies

We are so very sorry to hear of Mrs. Warkentin’ s passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family. Bob and Janis Davies


Janis and Bob Davies

We are so sorry to hear of the tragic passing of Aunt Marilyn. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.


Vern & Angie Warkentin

Condolences to Jack and family ! Thinking of your family with the loss of a beautiful person ! Bernice and John Winter


Bernice Winter

Our Hearts and Condolences to Jack, Wayne, Tim, Paul, Debbie, Terry and Families. Such an amazing friend and woman will be missed. Our prayers are with you all. God Bless. 🙏


Phillip and Gloria Kupiec

We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Marilyn's passing. it just won't register..We think of her everyday.Our deepest sympathy to you Jack & your family.. Peter & Helen.


H Warkentin

A special memory I have of Marilyn goes back twenty five years. She was supervisor of the Day Away Program in the Anglican Church Hall in Teulon. My mother at age 97 was attending this program and on her 98th birthday was too ill to attend, so Marilyn organized, with the handi van, to bring Mom's friends to her house in Inwood for a birthday party. They came with a gift, cake, cards and many good wishes. Marilyn also brought her daughter and little grand daughter. This all made my Mom's birthday so special, and the wonderful special person that Marilyn was. I will miss her at Gateway. Deepest Sympathy to her husband and family. Freida Jorheim


Freida jorheim

Marilyn and Jack were some of the first to welcome us 11 years ago when we moved to Teulon. Marilyn and I became close friends while volunteering at the Food Bank. Rest in peace my friend. Grace and Lance


Lance and Grace Barham

I join everyone in the community who are heartbroken with the tragic loss of Marilyn. She was a joy and will be missed by all who knew her claudette Griffin


Claudette griffin

Our deepest sympathy to Marilyn’s Family. We will cherish the memories we have of her. Barbara and David Quinn and Stephan Jaclyn and Jorja Debbie and Albert


Barbara Pomarenski

Marilyn was a very special person so community minded and very family orientated She was a great nurses aide in her day and gave many years to Hunter Memorial My thoughts and prayers are with her family


Margaret Medwid

I am very sadden to learn of Marilyn’s passing today! Marilyn was always gentle, caring and knowledgeable of the care she gave. So sorry for your loss.


Donna Stewart

My deepest sympathy to the family. Your Mom was a big part of our community. Such a tragic loss.


Sherri Waluk

I have very clear memories of Jack and Marilyn curling with my parents back in the day. Those once a week games were always full of laughter and good times on and off the ice. My parents being farmers had limited time set aside for social activities but they certainly made time for those weekly games with the Warkentins. Marilyn was so down to earth and hospitable. They were both most certainly highly respected by my family. R.I.P. Mrs Warkentin.


Jan Charison

Our deepest sympathies to Jack, Wayne, Tim, Paul, Debbie, Terry and Families. It was shocking news to hear the passing of your Mom. Cherish the Memories, they last forever.


Bev, Grant & Stephanie McDonnell

Our sincere condolences to the Warkentin family on the passing of your dear Wife, Mom, Grandma and Great Grandma. May you be comforted by your precious memories. She will be truly missed.


Larry & Georgina Nelson

Our deepest sympathies to Jack Wayne Tim Paul Debbie Terry and families.


RENE BOUVIER

My heart goes out to Marilyn’s family on her tragic passing. Marilyn was just the kindest, most gentle woman whose love for her family was so very evident. My sincere condolences.


Patti Charison

Our deepest sympathies to the family. Our hearts go out to each of you. Your mom was such a beautiful human being with a big heart and full of care and thoughtfulness. We will miss her company and her humor at our girls get togethers. Such a huge loss to our community.


Rod and Karen Krochenski

I’m very sorry to hear of Mrs Warkentin’s passing. She was an amazing woman and I will miss her as will many others very deeply. My condolences to the family.


Shannon Dupont

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Are you or someone you know planning a funeral?

Contact Ken today to book an appointment.

Contact Ken