FLORENCE ROSA GRAY

Florence Rosa Gray, nee Popowich, passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on June 30, 2009 at Yuculta Lodge.
Florence was born Nov. 28, 1929 to the late William and Julia Popowich. She was raised in Rainy River, Ont. and upon graduating high school, she moved to Winnipeg, Man. to attend Success Business College.
It was back in Rainy River that she met and later married the love of her life, the late Walter (Woody) Gray, on Nov. 26, 1952.
In 1964, Florence and Woody made Fort Frances, Ont. their home as this was “the place they loved.”
Florence is remembered by many as the “fancy lady” who worked at Eaton’s and in the hospital on the activation unit.
Florence loved people, and this is most evident in how she gave to her family and her community of Fort Frances. She was an active member of the St. John’s Anglican Church A.C.W., Rainycrest Home for the Aged Auxiliary, La Verendrye General Hospital Auxiliary, and chief organizer for Meals on Wheels.
Florence and Woody were honoured in 1991 as Fort Frances’ Citizens of the Year.
In their earlier years, Florence and Woody enjoyed camping, fishing, dancing, and travelling with their children. In retirement, Arizona became their winter home.
They especially enjoyed playing cards, and were always willing for a game with friends or family, especially their six grandchildren.
Florence was predeceased by her parents, Bill and Julia Popowich; brother, John; and daughter, Patricia; as well as her husband, Woody.
Florence will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Susan (John) McCormac, Bonnie(Terry) Dagenais, and Georgine Salmonson; as well as her granddaughters, Holly, Erika (Curtis), Shannon, and Cyndy and grandsons, Curtis and Scott; one great-granddaughter, Olivia Florence; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial for mom will be held Saturday, July 25, 2009 at 11 a.m. at St. John’s Anglican Church in Fort Frances.
Lunch to follow.
In lieu of flowers, in memoriam donations may be made to St. John’s Anglican Church.
As long as we live, you, too, will live for you have been, are, and always will be a part of us.
We love you, Mom.