A Mother is she who can take the place of all others
But whose place no one else can take.
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our Mother, Marilyn Ann Johnstone; loving Mother to Paul & Kerrey, Mother-in-Law to Elaine & Jason, loving Grandmother to Jacob, Owen, Morgan, Sydney & Addison, loving Sister to David and beloved Friend to so many others.
Our Mother lived every day of her 76 years the way she wanted to, surrounded by her family and friends. To her they were her pulse, her reason to live and how she valued her true self-worth; by the amount of love she had in her heart and in her life for all of them. To many she was the shoulder to lean on, the ear to bend, the hand to hold and the glue that held everything together. She was someone you could always count on to be there when you needed her and just seeing her smile and the laughter in her eyes was enough to turn any challenge into something you could conquer.
The last year and a half of our Mother’s life became her battle; one where she now needed the love, strength and support of all she knew and cared for. First she lost the Love of her life, Angus, after 50 years of Marriage and also had to find the courage & strength to conquer Cancer. Our Mother found the grace and dignity to get through both obstacles by believing in the love and laughter that everyone gave her and then lived another 9 months fulfilling her dreams and finding love in every moment she had left.
Our Mother’s final days were spent exactly how she had hoped; laying in a sun-filled room, overlooking a beautiful garden, surrounded by those she loved in the world the most. Her final moment is one that she selfishly gave back to us, by slipping away peacefully, while holding tightly onto both our hands. Although the feel of her touch will forever be missed, the bond created by the union of our hands will never be broken.
Children and Mothers never truly part-
Bound in the beating of each other’s heart.
The Family will be holding a Memorial Service to Honour & Remember Marilyn’s Life on Friday, July 8th, 2016 at 2pm at Egan Funeral Home , 203 Queen Street S. (Hwy. 50), Bolton (905-857-2213). A gathering will occur following the service at approximately 2:30 pm, also at Egan’s. As per her wishes, all Friends and Family are invited to attend so that she can say goodbye to all that loved her as well as those who will continue to love her family now that she is gone.
In lieu of flowers, our Mother’s wish is that a donation be made in her honor to Bethell Hospice in Inglewood. This facility provides a safe haven to all who are about to make this difficult journey to the afterlife and we were truly honored to have our Mothers’ final days spent here. Knowing the Love you have for her could translate into a Legacy for others in their time of need would be the greatest gift you could ever give her. Bethell house has a variety of ways you can donate; buying a Candle in her Honor for “Light Up the Runway” Walk, supporting another one of their fundraising events or via direct donation to foundation.bethellhospice.org.
Condolences for the family may be offered at www.EganFuneralHome.com
Beverly McKenzie
Dear Paul, Kerrey and Family, Please accept my deepest sympathy. Although we were neighbours for just a short time, I was looking forward to spending “fun time” with Marilyn. She was a fine, classy lady – one we could all aspire to emulate. At this difficult time for all of you, please take comfort from the knowledge that you did everything to make her final days pleasant. Affectionately, Bev. McKenzie
Barb Smith
So, so sorry to hear this sad news.
She was the sweetest person in every sense of the word.
My deepest condolences to the entire family.
RIP Marilyn Johnstone….XOXO
Violet & Dave Best
Kerrey, Jay, Addison, Jake, & Owen;
We are very sorry to learn of the passing of your Mother/ Grandmother… We were very fortunate to have met your mom only a few times. Each time, she was always so cheerful, bubbly, and just a pleasure to be around. We are happy to know, she went peaceful, and with all of her loving family with her. Cherish your memories they will live on forever…
Daphne Bruce
Kerrey, Jay, Jason, Owen, Addison, Phil and I are so sad to hear of your Mother’s passing. She was a lovely, fun lady and she will certainly be missed. Just know you all made this last year bearable for her as she fought the tough fight. She is now at peace. The best way to get through this sad time is keep remembering all the wonderful times you shared with her.
Valerie Boon
Dear Kerrey and Family,
I am so very sad to hear of your mother’s passing. Although I never met Marilyn in person, I felt I knew her from the conversations Kerrey and I often shared. She was described as such a lovely person, just like Kerrey. My deepest condolences.
Alistair Hepburn
One of my favourite things was to run into Mrs. Johnstone while we were out walking our respective dogs. Kasey ever faithfully by her side, was always patient to sit and wait as we discussed the latest goings on. Broadgreen is not the same without her or Angus, or Kasey.
My extreme condolences on the loss of such a lovely woman.
Brady Jepsen
Dear Kerrey and family.
I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Although I only met Marilyn on one occasion, accompanied by the many, many stories you shared with me over the years, I have always understood what a key role she has played in your lives and family. Marilyn’s spirit transcends the earth and I have every belief that she will continue to look down upon you all, with Angus by her side, and be ever watchful and proud of each of you.
Our family’s thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time……hugs from your friends out West.
Brady, Naomi, Vienna and Seveya Jepsen
Georgina Morrison
Dear kerrey, Paul and family,
i was so fortunate to have known both your parents and especially your mom Kerrey. She was your rock and always the most classy and elegant woman in the room. i will never ever forget her beautiful smile and smarkle in her eyes when she was surrounded by her children and grandkids…sending you a big hug and strength to you all during this difficult time.
Rosemary. Zancanaro
Marilyn was a dear friend for many years her only regret was leaving her beloved children and grandchildren please know that your mother was a lovely lady and what is lovely never dies but goes on to other loveliness.
My deepest sympathies.
Rosemary Zancanaro and family
Erika Kalichman
Dearest Kerrey, Jay, Jason, Owen and Addison,
We are all God’s children, from the morning hour of birth;
He let’s us live and laugh and love and have our days on earth;
He guides us through the afternoon, until sunset rays are cast;
Then one by one with gently words…..
He calls us home at last.
We are all so sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved mother and grandmother.
Always your friend,
Love Erika, Paul, and Daniel Kalichman
Christine Evans-White
Dear Kerrey , Paul and family
We are so sorry for your loss. Your mum was a beautiful human being who will be missed by many. Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
Christine Evans-White and Family
Sheryl Streisfield
Kerrey,
Words may not suffice to express the heartfelt sorrow that I feel for the passing of your mother, but please accept my condolences as I am thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and in our prayers. Sheryl
Paul Howard
Marilyn a Grand Mother, Mother, Wife. Sister, Daughter and beloved Cousin to Paul. May my thoughts be with you and the family always.
Anne & Peter Charleston (nee Johnstone)
We first met Marilyn when proud Angus, my big brother, brought this bubbly bright-eyed lady from Liverpool on a visit to our home in Edinburgh. Not long afterwards I was delighted to be a bridesmaid at their wedding. They soon set up home in Formby, and along came Paul and Kerrey, much to their grandparents delight.
With Paul and Kerrey growing up and Marilyn’s brother David living in Toronto, Angus, Marilyn, Paul and Kerrey quickly followed, then later Marilyn’s parents Bill and Irene arrived to make the family unit complete. It wasn’t easy setting up a new life in Canada, but having such a close knit family around helped enormously. The years since then have rolled by with many happy events in between including the arrival of their own grandchildren.
Now Angus and Marilyn are once again walking hand in hand as they always did, with of course, Casey by their side.
We send our love and deepest sympathy to all the family.
Sister-in-law Anne, husband Peter and family in Leicestershire
Terry Kirkland
Kerrey and Family
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow,
But remember me in every tomorrow.
Remember the joy, the laughter the smiles;
I’ve only gone to rest for a little while.
Although my leaving causes pain and grief,
My going has given me relief.
So dry your eyes and remember me,
Not as I am, but as I used to be.
As long as I have the love of each of you,
I can live my life in the hearts of all of you.
Terry Kirkland and family
Alison McLean
Kerrey, Paul and family….we are all thinking of you. What a loss. Your mum was a kind, warm and loving lady, with the most twinkly eyes and so full of fun. Emma feels so grateful to finally have had the privilege to get to know her, albeit only over the last few years. All our love and prayers. Ali, Emma and Chloe.
Betty & Bob Allen
Dear Paul Elaine Morgan and Sydney:
Our deepest condolences in the passing of your mother mother In law and grandmother, although I did not know Marilyn, I often heard her name mentioned and know she was such a big part of your lives.
How blessed you were to have had her as part of your family.
Our thoughts are with you, and may all the man good memories amd times help you theough these difficult days.
Betty and Bob Allen
Marthese Rapa
Paul and Family,
Your mother’s love can never be replaced by any other. She gave you life, taught you, fought for you, held you, shouted at you, kissed you, and loved you unconditionally. Death leaves a heartache that no one can ever heal but love leaves a memory that no one can ever take away. My heart aches for you and your family during this time. Your mother was such an amazing person and she will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marthese and Family
Marion & Al Spence
Paul , Kerrey and Family
Thinking of all of you at this difficult time. “RIP” Marilyn”
Lynn Dignan
Paul, Kerrey and Family,
Sending our deepest sympathy at this sad time for you all. You are in our thoughts.
Love Ella, Lynn and Gary Johnstone. XX
Laurie, Lance & Phoebe
Kerrey, Paul, and Family,
We will miss your mother’s humor, kindness, vibrant smile, and the twinkle in her eyes. Our hearts ache for you, and there has not been a day that you were not in our thoughts and prayers. Know that we are always there to support you, in any way that we can.
Laurie, Lance, and Phoebe
JEAN EVANS
We wish to offer our deepest condolences to all family members on the passing of Marilyn. A lovely person. Who will be sadly missed.
Rose & Tom Wright
Kerrey Paul and all the family
I am deeply and saddened to hear the passing of your mother, grandmother.
I worked at Mappins Jewelers in Pickering Town Ctr. When your mom became our new manager. She was a great role model with all her experience, plus a no nonsense lady but very fare along side our team associates were Marion Spence, Vi, Donna, Barb Smith, and Brenda Harris, & Glen the past Manager. We all formed great friendships. Marilyn loved to hear a good joke, especially on those long slow summertime days and evenings.
After living in Pickering for 30yrs. & working at the store 10 of those yrs., we retired to Bracebridge Muskoka after enjoying 23 yrs of cottaging on Lake Muskoka.
I had just re-acquainted with Marilyn through email-mail between xmas and the New Year, & hear the very sad news of your Dad Angus. Then her telling me of her uterus cancer and all the treatments she received, I could relate what she went through, knowing full well myself. I’m fighting cancer 3 times and now again this past fall.
Your mom was a amazing lovely lady, and will truly be missed, but will always be remembered.
Hugs to all
Cath airey
To Paul Kerry and family we are so very sorry to hear the devastating news of the passing of your wonderfull mum. We have so many happy memories of the times we came to stay with you in Pickering . Spending some wonderfull times with your amazing parents these times will stay in all our hearts forever . I remember your mums laugh and the great big sparkling smile she was a true lady and so very elegant . I am sure she was so proud of you all. We thank you all for our memories ,you are always in our thoughts look after one another I know you will . You are a family to be very proud of . All our love cath Martin Airey and family uk X x
Trish Chard
Dear Johnstone family, we were neighbours and friends of Marilyn and your Dad Angus ( and dog Casey ) when they lived In Pickering. We are so very very sad to hear about your Mom. She was a WONDERFUL LADY. Always cheerful no matter what obstacles she had put in her way! She lovingly looked after your Gramma and your Dad and though at times it was hard she smiled through it all.
Even when dealt another blow by that terrible Cancer she remained very positive.
Marilyn Sweetie, Heaven got a Beautiful Angel.
sheila & Grant Waddell
Hi Paul and Kerrey,
Blessings on you and your families at this very difficult time.
Sheila and I express our sincere condolences on the passing of your much loved mother. We are doubly saddened also that we will be journeying back from the US on Friday and will be unable to attend the funeral service.
Last Monday, Allan, Rita and ourselves were able to visit with your Mom at Sunnybrook and found her in good spirits and able to enjoy her “cuppa”. Before we left, I asked her if she would like us to pray with her and she responded “yes, please”. I then gently asked her if there was a particular need that she wished us to pray for her. Without a moment’s hesitation, she looked into my eyes and said “peace”. With that direction, we thanked God for her, for her lifelong sacrificial role as a great wife, mother and grandmother and prayed for the peace of God to surround her, you and your families in these days.
As we left, she was looking forward to moving to the hospice in Caledon. You will have seen the picture Sheila took of your mom, which we’ll call the “thumbs up’ photo. That is our last remembrance of a kind, cheerful, friendly and outgoing lady. The world needs more people with the attitude and spirit of your mom.
As you gather on Friday and even as you grieve, our prayer for you all, as your mom requested, will be that you feel the peace of God, which passes all understanding.
Blessings !!
Sheila and Grant Waddell