It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our dear Mother, Mary Ardella Duck, at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Guelph, Ontario. Gone to join the “love of her life” Archie Lawrence Duck (2008). She will be forever missed by her children; Wilda Burke (Bill), Ken Watts (predeceased 2016), Arlene Cremasco (John), Lori Warner (Troy), and her very special extended family, Barb and Eric Holmes. She was a loving Grandmother to Brian, Billie-Jo, Kelly, Kerrie, Stacey, Brad, and Chris. Known affectionately as “GG” by her Great Grandkids; Nolan, Mackenzie, Isabel, Sam, Shiloh and Ivi. Ardella was born in Blantyre, Ontario to Gordon and Irene Wright. She was the oldest of five siblings, survived by her only remaining brother Ernie Wright (Patricia) of Owen Sound. Ardella’s incredibly hard work ethic began with farming and continued throughout her life in the many ways she chose to busy herself. She was a master gardener and a founding member of the Herb Society of Fergus. The beauty of her colourful gardens was an eye to behold and a pleasure to all who strolled through them. Ardella self-taught herself many things and became a book of knowledge to all who sought her advice, which she gave freely. Her many talents included but were by no means limited to sewing, cooking, painting landscape pictures, wood carving, and making beautiful floral arrangements for any special occasion. She loved and protected not only her family but mothered many beloved animal friends over the years and gave generously to her favourite shelters. From bringing home several stray cats, to raising a flock of orphaned wild ducklings, her caring, nurturing, nature were there for all in need. For many years she bred and raised Siberian Huskies, becoming a CKC registered breeder and competing in shows and dog sledding events. Truly some of the fondest memories were times spent gathered around her beautiful Koi pond for “Happy Hour” enjoying some colourful conversations and a “nice cold beer”. She was a woman known for her incredible strength and determination, which we admired and were inspired by. Her generous heart and love for our natural world were an example for us all. Her head back and “laugh to the sky” will be sorely missed but we will continue to feel her spirit in every garden bloom and she will be held with love and remain forever in our hearts, never to be forgotten. Until we meet again, so long for now Mom. A private service and interment will be held for family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Cats Anonymous or to The Farley Foundation.
www.grahamgiddyfh.com