RETA EILEEN McGIBBON
1928 - 2016
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, great grandmother Reta Eileen McGibbon.
Reta was born on April 26, 1928 in Drumheller Alberta the youngest daughter of John and Elizabeth Letcher. In 1929 the family moved to a farm in the Grahamston district east of Innisfail spending the first winter in a tent. Mom often regaled us with tales of the pioneer life; as a young girl she would ride her horse to school, it was a good thing mom had a horse as apparently it was uphill both ways. Mom also remembered fondly the old style hay rides and country dances.
Reta completed her schooling in Innisfail, where she met the love of her life John (Jack) Ronald McGibbon. They were married on May 18, 1949 and continued to reside in Innisfail. Mom and dad raised three children Wendy, Terry, and the precious baby Donald. We kids remember fondly the many camping, golfing, and skiing trips. Unfortunately Reta was predeceased by Jack in July of 1980.
Reta worked for the Town of Innisfail for 18 years retiring in 1986 in the position of Secretary Treasurer. Mom was diligent in her duties, we remember her as always trying to do the best job possible for the residents of Innisfail. After retirement mom remained busy as canvass coordinator for the Red Cross as well as delivering meals on wheels. She also continued to go on camping and golfing trips with her kids and their families. Mom also enjoyed travelling with her sisters and her special companion Punky. They camped extensively through Western Canada as well as making trips to Hawaii and taking cruises.
Reta was also a renowned knitter and supplied all of us kids, friends and acquaintances with many baby outfits, sweaters, slippers. You name it …mom could make it. Mom also enjoyed reading, doing word puzzles and playing games. We in particular enjoyed playing rummolli; we could get quite uproarious as the family exchanged tons of pennies during the evenings on our trips We had fun.
In the spring of 2014 Mom moved to the Country Manor. She enjoyed her time there, surrounded by friends old and new, as well as a caring staff.
Mom passed on October 20 2016 at the Red Deer Hospice surrounded by her family. The courage and good nature in which mom faced her final days epitomized Reta. Humour and compassion were the hallmarks of our mother. Mom, Gramma, Reta, we all love you and will miss you.
Reta was predeceased by her father and mother, brothers and sisters. She is survived by her 3 children, 7 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers the family requests those that can make a donation to the Red Deer Hospice Society.