Linda Lou Manness

LINDA LOU MANNESS

With a deep sense of sadness, but also great thankfulness for her impact on our lives, we announce the passing of a deeply loved woman Linda Lou Manness on December 1, 2014.

Linda was predeceased by her father William, father in law Don and sister-in-law Carol.

She leaves with great memories and love her husband of 43 years Garth; her children Kevin, Tim (Kendra), Lisa and Dean; grandchildren Hope, K.J. and Jude; her mother Verna Michaluk; siblings Donna Miller (Carl), Daryl Michaluk (Marlene) and Cheryl McDowell (John); along with her mother-in-law Gladys Mannesss and brothers-in-law Laverne Manness (Patricia), Stuart Manness (Jane) and Craig Manness (Cheryl).

Linda was born February 7, 1950 in Preeceville Saskatchewan, moving to Manitoba at a young age. Although she spent 4 years teaching, her chosen vocation was that of homemaker. She loved her family and loved caring for them. She loved babies, little boys and "special" girls and dedicated her life to helping them grow, learn and use their God given talents to find their purpose in life. She was a constant advocate for Lisa and could exhibit some of the protective instincts of a mama grizzly if she felt any threat to family cohesion or safety. She made each of our houses beautiful homes and every family event special and fun, she was a great cook. She also had a great love for her extended family and friends. Their physical and spiritual wellbeing were always on her heart as she prayed and cared for them in the best ways she knew how.

Linda felt God's presence in her life at a very young age. She loved God and was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. She prayed to Him faithfully and believed unquestionably that God answered prayers and understood God's love for her and others. She looked for God's direction and leading in her life daily. She was passionate about sharing God's love with others. She loved the beauty of God's creation. She was an avid photographer who chased sunsets, loved sunrises, loved the country landscape, wildlife and of course took numerous pictures of her family and friends. Her children were often relieved to hear the rewinding of the roll. She never mastered a digital.

She loved gardening. Her first experience with her own garden was on Garth's parents' farm, where she enjoyed gardening with Garth's mother Gladys. In most recent years some landscaping in their backyard at home allowed her to mix a flower garden and vegetable gardens on her deck and in the backyard. She loved her hands in the soil, it brought her closer to God.

Linda loved golf. Although never playing as much as she wanted, she enjoyed every moment of every hour she spent on the golf course. Her favourite courses were Falcon Lake (where she first learned to golf), Clear Lake (our summer vacationing spot), and Breezy Bend Country Club. Through the kindness of a friend, Linda and Garth were able to spend one day at the 2013 Masters where Linda saw and experienced the beautiful Augusta National Golf Course and Linda was able to see all of the great golfers that she so enjoyed following.

Linda loved music. Growing up with the leadership of her father Linda and her siblings created a family singing group that played many engagements throughout Manitoba and even won competitions. She brought music into our family and played a key role in encouraging our daughter Lisa to develop her singing skills and to sing. Linda loved many types of music throughout her life, country, folk, but in recent years focused and loved southern gospel music. Linda along with Garth and Lisa were able to travel to and enjoy many concerts of wonderfully talented groups singing the message of the gospel and on many nights they would watch DVD's of their favourite singers.

Viewing will be held from 9:00 am to 10:00 am on Monday, December 8, 2014 at Grant Memorial Baptist Church, 877 Wilkes Avenue. The funeral service will begin at 10:00 am, followed by a reception at the church. Immediately following the reception, burial services will take place at 1:30 p.m. at Thomson "In the Park" Funeral Home and Cemetery, 1291 McGillivray Boulevard.

Linda loved life. She lived it well. She loved others and showed it through words and actions. She will be missed but we know that she is in heaven today with Jesus enjoying God's heavenly choir. She will be at peace. We love you Linda, mom and grandma.

We would like to thank all who sent well wishes, visited, prayed and cared for Linda and our family during Linda's illness. Linda appreciated it greatly as did the rest of the family. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation, (Brain Tumor Research) and New Day Ministries (www.mynewday.tv).