Maria (Mia) Fournier

MARIA “MIA” FOURNIER (nee Terra)

Mia passed away peacefully on November 12th at the age of 81, at the Selkirk General Hospital after truly and artfully enjoying life to its fullest!  Mia bravely endured dementia over the past few years, a cruel and devastating disease that robbed her of mind and body.

Mia will be lovingly remembered by her husband Leo of 60 years, daughter Michelle (Cam), son Bruce (Sandra), grandchildren Connor (Emily), Reegan (Sydney), Simone (Roger), Matthew & Carson, sisters Thea & Joanna (Pat), and numerous nieces and nephews.  Mia was predeceased by her parents Alida & Ted and brother Frank (Pat).

Mia will leave a legacy as a beloved wife, devoted mother, adored Nanny, dedicated friend, and distinguished teacher. She was born August 21, 1942, in Amstelveen, Netherlands and moved to Canada at 11 years old to Lac Du Bonnet, MB where Mia enjoyed swimming, fishing, and waterskiing growing up. She met the love of her life in the town’s high school which led to Mia & Leo’s marriage in 1963. They soon moved to St. Andrews, MB to build a home and raise a family.

Mia was a devoted and loving mother. She instilled positive qualities and morals in her children that allowed them to flourish. Cherished memories include amazing cooking, homemade clothes, summers at “The Bus”, gardening, swimming, skating, skiing, family/friend gatherings, road trips, and so much more.

Upon graduating Teacher’s College (and later University of Winnipeg), “Mrs. Fournier” was considered a master teacher who positively influenced many young students in several schools during her career - Pine Falls, Winnipeg, Selkirk, and St. Andrews. Her greatest gift (in addition to wearing her flashy themed shirts and earrings for her students’ enjoyment) in the classroom was her ability to create genuine relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Mia retired from the Lord Selkirk School Division in 1997.

Mia became “Nanny” for the first time in 1993 and truly enjoyed spoiling all her grandchildren, hosting many family dinners and events… especially at their beautiful Lac Du Bonnet retirement home on the river. Happy memories include jumping/swimming off the dock, fishing, knee-boarding/tubing, hot-tubbing, BBQs, biking, playing games, Canada Day Celebrations and of course Nanny’s delicious bread, tortiere, mustard pickles, wild rice and smoked Goldeye!

Mia & Leo embarked on countless adventures travelling to their favourite places. They flew back to the Netherlands frequently to visit family and traveled Europe together. They also enjoyed journeys across Canada, Hawaii, Mexico, and 23 warm winters in Tucson where Mia made many new and lifelong friends golfing, playing pool, and of course socializing!

Mia was a passionate and creative person whose hobbies included skilled painting, stained glass, crafts, sewing, gardening, tending prize roses and countless other artistic interests.

Her gift to us all was her ability to share her unconditional love and a peaceful positive outlook on life. She also LOVED chocolate, so whenever we enjoy some, she will be in our presence! Her memories will live on in the smiles she sparked, the laughter she shared, and the love she spread.

The family would like to thank the nurses and aides at the Tudor House Care Home for the compassion and comfort Mia received during her time there. Special thank you to Dr. Paradoski, Dr. Wood and the Selkirk Hospital for their care.

In keeping with her wishes, cremation has taken place, and a small gathering to celebrate Mia’s life will be held late March. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mia’s memory are welcomed to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba. 

Tributes: www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

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