ROBIN ANN GARRISON

ROBIN ANN GARRISON - BURLINGTON - After a very long and courageous battle with Multiple Sclerosis, Robin was called home by the Lord on May 30, 2015. She was born Robin Ann Safford on March 6, 1962, to Walter and Patricia Safford, who predeceased her. She was the youngest of four siblings; one sister and two brothers. She had two children, a son, Norman, and a daughter, Maygan. In addition, she leaves two grandchildren, Maygan's wonderful children, Mia and Miguel. She also leaves her beloved Aunt June who lives in Massachusetts. Despite the incredibly difficult circumstances she faced, Robin managed to make an impact on everyone she met with her smile, spirit and determination. Family, friends and strangers alike were inspired by her strength, and her willingness to accept the challenges and difficulties she faced with her disease. Robin passed on from this earth at her home with the care and support of her adopted/surrogate family, the Niquettes, who loved and accepted her as one of their own. They were as follows: David, her best friend, caregiver, and her soul mate for eternity; her dear sister and friend, Karen, whose support never varied - Karen's generosity and unselfishness helped Robin to experience many wonderful trips and opportunities for adventure; her dear niece, Leah, who was her loyal friend and companion - because of her positive personality, Leah was the one person who could always make Robin smile; her dear brother Paul, whom Robin loved to exchange playful verbal barbs with, commonly referring to each other as 'an old fart' - she was safe in the knowledge that Paul was the older brother she knew she could count on; her dear sister, Donna - Robin always felt she had a special bond with Donna and very much admired her will and strength; and lastly her dear sister, Jackie - although their contact was limited due to the miles between them, Robin knew that Jackie was the first to offer a kind word and jump up to hold the door open for her. Robin's strength and resolve was magnified each day by these family members and the many other wonderful people who supported her and helped her through her long and difficult battle: Dr. Rachel Inker of CHC - she cared for Robin for over 10 years throughout the course of her disease, and her genuine concern and caring made her the best doctor that Robin could ever have had; in addition to Rachel, thanks to Marsha and all the the other staff of CHC; the carrying staff at VNA, especially Dianne LNA, Brenda LNA, Pat RN, and Carrie Shamell; and special thanks to Deacon Bill for his weekly Eucharistic visits and his support in strengthening her faith in God. As a young woman, she enjoyed many different pastimes and activities. She was a very skilled hobbyist. Her talents included sewing, painting, and crafts of all kinds. She had a lifelong love of dance and was devastated when her MS robbed of her of her ability to dance. Quite possible her favorite pastime would be spending summer evenings with her partner, David, enjoying a campfire and a moonlit lake at his parents summer get away on Fairfield Pond. Although this simple pleasure was denied her in her last three years, her determination never wavered. She loved the beauty of her home state and was very proud to be a native born Vermonter. All those who knew Robin would agree that her legacy will forever be remembered as something that is much more important than money, property or prestige, but one of forgiveness, acceptance and love. Visiting hours will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, June 4, 2015, in the Boucher and Pritchard Funeral Home, 85 N. Winooski Ave., Burlington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2015, in St. Joseph Co-Cathedral with interment to follow in New Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements are by Boucher and Pritchard Funeral Directors. Donations may be made to National MS Society.