It is with heavy hearts that we say farewell to Marlene Gertrude McMath (née McDonald) who slipped away peacefully in the early hours of Thursday, February 13th at St. Joseph's Health Centre. Marlene was born in the same hospital on April 28, 1932, almost 93 years before. She had volunteered there as a candy striper and spent her final hours in the familiar hospital lovingly cared for by the gentle nursing staff of the palliative care wing.

Marlene is predeceased by Graham, her devoted husband of over 61 years. She will be greatly missed by her three children, David (Cathy), Stephen (Brenda) and Maureen (Peter), and by her cherished grandchildren Tyler (Bailey), Lauren, Hunter, Lillian and Jonah.

Our mother was born, raised and lived nearly her entire life in the west end of Toronto. She attended Western Technical-Commercial School where she excelled in secretarial studies. She had a close-knit bond to her own mother Hilda, as well as her many aunts, Hilda’s sisters, most of whom worked in Toronto’s garment industry as dressmakers, cutters and finishers. They all loved to spoil "Mar" with handmade outfits. As she grew into adulthood, her love of clothes combined with her stunning figure turned many a head.

She was thrilled to look her absolute best, and always dressed for the occasion, whether teaching modeling classes at Thornton’s or simultaneously working as an executive secretary at Bryden Brass. She took pride and pleasure in her years there, enjoying the office camaraderie. Dedicated and diligent in her work, she was so valued by her employer that she was sent on an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City when she was only 18. Quite a thrill for a young woman who had never seen the world.

At 19, Marlene would meet the love of her life, Graham McMath who was then an ice delivery man on the brink of entering the property management business. As a young couple Marlene and Graham often attended Friday night hockey games at The Gardens with their good friends Bill and Elsie Hall, usually enjoying a pre-game cocktail at The Hot Stove Lounge.

After a somewhat protracted engagement, the two married on February 28th, 1959 at Bonar Presbyterian Church. Both the wedding and reception to follow at the Old Mill, despite being held in the midst of a snow storm, were well attended. Marlene looked the picture of elegance in her wedding gown.

The newlyweds set up house in The Kingsway and started a family. But life was not all roses for the young couple. They sadly lost their first-born child, Karen, who died in infancy from Cystic Fibrosis. Though Marlene always spoke lovingly about her first child, it was not too long before David and then Stephen were born, followed by the arrival of Maureen.

Throughout their marriage, our mother was the perfect counterpart to our father. She was his partner in running the property management business, and his helpmate, deftly managing the family and household. Our mom did it all with flare and a positive attitude, including entertaining their many guests and friends during the holidays and up north at the family cottages on Cameron Lake and later in Orillia. She made it look easy too.

Marlene was a member of the Kingsway Bowling League which met weekly. For many years she played cards at a monthly ladies’ euchre club.

When our parents became full-fledged snowbirds, Marlene helped organize and run the annual White Elephant sale and the games competitions at their condo down in Fort Lauderdale. She enjoyed being involved with the different activities throughout the winter months, like the aquafit classes at the pool, and dining out with friends. Whether at home or in Florida, our mother loved to shop. Sherway Gardens was definitely her mother ship. She took great pleasure in buying and gifting clothes for her family, particularly at Christmastime.

Christmas was without a doubt our mother's favourite holiday. In addition to the gift-giving, she loved the carols and music and gathering with friends and family. For over 40 years, our parents hosted their annual open house on Christmas Eve. Somehow after the last guests left, usually in the wee hours of the morning, they still had the energy to tidy up and set up the presents. And what a magical morning it was, to wake up to all those wrapped presents! Every year our mother managed to decorate the tree, shop and wrap all the gifts, entertain on Christmas Eve, and then prepare and serve a delectable Christmas dinner for upwards of 20 people.

While reminiscing about our mother, so many memories come to mind. Her fondness for sweets, especially fudge. Her love of family pets and their devotion to her. The planning and time she put into the delicious meals she made for her family and guests. The close friendships she had with her long-time friends, Mary Lou Speirs, Maggie McInnes, Gerry Tanner, Dorothy Stevenson and Elsie Hall. Spending far too much time grocery shopping at the A&P where she was a loyal and well loved customer for over 35 years. It took her twice as long to get through her shopping list because all the staff just had to stop and chat with Mrs. McMath. Playing horseshoes and cards with lifelong friends up at the cottage on Cameron Lake. Mom and dad on their own his and her lawn tractors mowing the grass at the cottage and farm and each autumn busy sweeping and raking the never ending leaves up north. The stolen quiet moments where she could relax and read her book or look out over the lake with a glass of wine at the end of a long, busy day. Her love, care and pride for all her grandchildren. How she fed lunch to half the kids who hung out at the old cottage - she made the best toasted tomato and peanut butter and banana sandwiches. And of course, that flaming red hair of hers.

In later years our parents enjoyed wonderful cruise holidays with a group of friends. They loved seeing the world together, exploring Alaska, Europe, Asia and South America. Mom always claimed she was a shy girl growing up, but we only saw her as welcoming, friendly and social. Wherever our mother and father went they were sure to make friends along the way.

Being such steadfast life partners, our parents lived their lives in tandem, but sadly with the passing of our father in July 2020, it was terribly difficult for Mom, especially in the midst of Covid lockdowns and increasing health challenges. And yet, she somehow managed to face it all with courage, a smile on her beautiful face and an indomitable, upbeat attitude.

She was a favourite at the Venvi Kingsway Retirement Home and the gentlemen residents always saved a place for her at their table during Happy Hour. Marlene spent her last four years at the Kingsway home making many new friends, enjoying the lovely gardens and participating in fun-filled activities and outings. So many were saddened to hear of her passing and we thank the caring staff who treated our mother with kindness and love.

Mom never lost her sense of humour throughout life's ups and downs. We are all so very grateful to have shared this time with her and to have been loved by such a special woman. Those fortunate enough to know her couldn't help but love her back. Like our father, our mother was never one to sit idle for very long, but we are comforted in the knowledge that now she rests easy.
We miss you, Mom/Nanny.
If lieu of flowers donations may be made to Cystic Fibrosis  Canada or Alzheimer Society of Canada.