Middleton, Anne Marie; On July 11th, at the age of 87, Anne passed away peacefully in her sleep with her two daughters at her side. Until recently she had enjoyed good health and lived life to the fullest. At Christmas she started to get ill and over the last few weeks she declined quickly and became very weak. Since she was a proud and independent lady this was very hard on her so her passing, although too soon for all of us who loved her, saved her from greater suffering which is truly a blessing. Anne Marie was born in Prelate Saskatchewan to Katherine and Frank Helfrich. She had 3 sisters, Betty, Mary and Katherine and 2 brothers, Jake and Joseph. Her father died when she was only 6 and her mother raised the family alone in the small farming community during the depression. Although she told some stories of hardship, most of her stories were about good times and a very close and loving family. She nursed in Vancouver, Oshawa and Toronto and in later years worked in home health care. In 1997 she lost her husband, Jim Middleton, to whom she had been married for over 50 years. Although it was a big blow, she never let it get her down. She always had a smile for everyone, always a kind word. She baked to beat the blues and made the best bread, pies and shortbreads around. At the age of 80 she quit smoking cold turkey after over 60 years of a pack a day habit. She was just incredible. Her strength, kindness and love were incomparable. She will be sadly missed by her daughters Jackie Clark and Janet Ragan, her son-in-laws, Cecil Clark and Randy Ragan, her grandchildren, Hailey Clark, Ben Ragan, Graham Ragan, Brook Ragan and Gavin Ragan as well as many friends and family who loved her dearly. She was a great lady, giving inspiration and comfort to many. May the angels bring her the peace and joy she so richly deserves.
Please join us at a service on Saturday July 20th at 1pm at the Simple Alternative, 1535 South Gateway Rd. in Mississauga. Reception to follow at 139 Daniel Street in Erin.