Weslyn MATHER Obituary
Weslyn Melva Mather (Dunford) October 2, 1945 passed away suddenly in Edmonton on November 22, 2015. Weslyn was born in Lethbridge, Alberta and raised in Coleman. She was a talented and popular young woman who loved to dance. As an A&W Car Hop in Cranbrook, BC she met the love of her life, her soul mate, Richard Mather who tragically predeceased her in 1997. Weslyn earned degrees at the UofC and UofA and was known for her innovation as an educator and counsellor. As an MLA her dedication to helping others in need and working as part of the official opposition was recognized by her colleagues and Albertans. An active and concerned advocate she sought to improve accessibility and services for those with disability. Her loving concern for the welfare of animals and wildlife was rewarded with chance sightings of deer, moose, a rabbit or two and countless birds in the yard of her home that gave her great pleasure.
Weslyn leaves her loving family Richard (grandson), siblings and nieces and nephews, Christyann and Dan Olson, Mary-Jo and Peter Woolgar, Alexis and Larry Holstead, Ava and Dale Morasch, Kevin Dunford and Shelley Trigg, Heather, Robb, Abigail and Raymond Hadden, Russell and Krista Sloan, Sarah and Ian Hern, Kiza, Stu, Stuart and Jack Trentham, Katy and Corey Shaw, Dustin Morasch and Megan McWilliam, Kyle, Allison, Hailey and Zoey Dunford, Belinda Dunford, and Dick's family, his sister Margaret (Cliff) Prochnau, brother Lawrence (Clarece) Mather and their families. Weslyn was predeceased by her brother Kenton Elliot Dunford, her brother in law Raymond Sloan and her parents Melvin and Joanne Dunford.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes to Alberta Wilderness Association, 455-12 St NW Calgary T2N 1Y9, www.albertawilderness.ca or ACCD Alberta Committee of Citizens with Disabilities 106 - 10423 178 St NW Edmonton AB T5S 1R5 will be a lasting tribute to a woman who "Made it Matter".
Services in celebration of Weslyn will be held Saturday November 28, 2015 at 2:30 p.m. at the Center for Spiritual Living, 7621 - 101 Avenue NW, Edmonton, AB.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
28 Entries
Lorraine Chelak
March 9, 2016
March 9, 2016
Just learned of her passing. Weslyn was a remarkable advocate for learning. She was a friend to all and she will be missed dearly.
December 16, 2015
Together again with her beloved husband Dick. What a remarkable woman, grandmother, and friend. We will treasure our memories of you Weslyn!
Sandra Thomsen / Wissinger
November 30, 2015
I truly wish I could have attended the memorial. Mrs. Mather was a trusted teacher from elementary school to high school. She was such a special person and will be missed. I'm so sorry for your loss.
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Fran Marion
November 29, 2015
Dear Weslyn's spirit continues to shine within everyone she ever met, knew, befriended or loved. I doubt she's 'resting in peace'... rather she's dancing up a storm in Dick's arms to Elvis tunes... tripping the lights fantastic throughout the Universe!
Jim Campbell
November 28, 2015
My sincerest condolences to your entire family. What a sad loss of someone who had so many talents to use and gave of them so generously to so many.
Sincerely,
Jim Campbell
Carolyn Benedik
November 28, 2015
Weslyn was a very special woman who made me a better person and who made the world a better place. Thank you, Wes. Rest in peace.
Wade Izzard
November 28, 2015
Weslyn Mather, what can you say? A solid performer in her personal, psychological, school councillor & legislative lives. What this A1 class lady did was turn her disability into an ability & that asset kept people always thinking positive thoughts about her! You can really say Weslyn was & is to be admired greatly!
Rory Koopmans
November 28, 2015
Weslyn may have had wheels for transport but figuratively she "stood tall" in the legislature & in her work in schools helping students & Albertans. I am a sad we won't hear her voice on the political scene anymore
Melanie Aube
November 27, 2015
My family moved to Millwoods in 1977 and Weslyn was the school councillor at Grace Martin elementary. She was then my House Master at J Percy Page in the early 90's. She used to always volunteer to be a hair model while I was in Beauty Culture in high school. I occasionally styled her hair in my tiny salon over the past decade. Me, my mom (Arlene Leroux) and my older brother (Craig) will greatly miss her.
Dianne & Elaine
November 27, 2015
We remember Weslyn at Grace Martin as an approachable colleague who dealt professionally with staff and students knowing how to listen to others' concerns and show warmth and compassion when support was needed. Weslyn's friendly demeanor endured her to people and she will be sadly missed. She was a great teacher and political figure and above all---a really unique person that was loved and admired by all who knew her. Dianne & Elaine
Florence Sparrow
November 27, 2015
Wes was a great Friend to my family and I.We will never forget you Wes and now you are home with the love of your life.Rest in peace Wes with the knowledge that you supported a lot of families with your Love and devotion to help others.We love you and will miss you.With deep respect Florence and Reg Sparrow and families.
November 27, 2015
So sorry to hear of Weslyn's passing. Weslyn and Dick were wonderful neighbors for many years. Rest in Peace. Henry and Debbie Shapka
November 27, 2015
We are out of the country so we will be unable to attend the service for Wes. Our deepest condolences to her family and friends.
Marjorie and Gil Mather
Audrey Holliday
November 27, 2015
Weslyn was a remarkable woman who worked tirelessly to help our youth. She assisted Parents Empowering Parents Society to establish our Mill Woods supports and was a strong advocate for better resources for youth involved in substance abuse. It was a privilege to know her and she will be greatly missed.
Jade Boldt
November 26, 2015
Just learned the sad news. What a wonderful woman. What a loss to her family, friends, the Alberta Liberal Party and the many Weslyn was such a strong advocate for. I will remember a genuine, kind and dedicated soul truly committed to serving others. Your light will always shine on in the example you set and your good work. Rest in peace Weslyn.
Jewel Maass
November 26, 2015
Sorry for your loss. Ellen Weatherbys daughter Jewel
Reg and Joan Crawford
November 26, 2015
Wes was a remarkable lady. Her skill with kids and people was apparent all the way back in her days at Grace Martin School. She was a remarkable educator and a good friend.
Rod Pickett
November 26, 2015
Will always cherish my memories of our times together. Wishing we could be with our family members, however, our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Rod Cher & Gerilynne
November 25, 2015
my friend - Route 66 lunches will never be the same without you.....I am so sad we have all lost you, - I am hoping there is a heaven and you and Dick are back at the A&W falling for each other all over again............
Bob Arthurs
November 25, 2015
Was great knowing you Wes. You certainly made a difference in my life. You was a great leader, advocate, mentor and friend. Rest well my friend - a rest duly deserved. will miss you.
November 25, 2015
Thank you for your service Weslyn. Rest in Peace.
Danny Kinal, Retired Principal ECS
November 25, 2015
Weslyn was a true ambassador for the Community of Mill Woods, as a teacher, administrator, MLA, and "leader at large" on societal issues. Weslyn also served on the Bosco Homes Board in her effort to advocate for and assist disadvantaged children and youth. Too special to leave us so soon and so suddenly.
Kent Hodgins
November 25, 2015
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
November 25, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Maureen B
November 25, 2015
Such a beautiful Lady. Classy. Will be missed. ❤
Nadine K.
November 25, 2015
Here's a candle to remember the life of Weslyn Mather , she will be missed by all that new her , may she rest in peace until we see her again one day soon , god bless her.
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