June 23, 1906 ~ May 23, 2010
BLANCHE WILLFORD passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2010 at the Crowsnest Pass Long Term Care Centre at the age of 103 years.
Blanche was born at her family home near Tyvan, SK, the third child of George and Bertha Ranson. After attending school at Hooverville, Balmoral and Moose Jaw Normal School, Blanche pursued her chosen career as a teacher, a role she loved, as many former students will confirm. In 1932 Blanche came to Coronach, SK to teach and this is where she met and married Albert Willford in 1933. Together they farmed at Birch Hills, SK, and in the Coronach area until they retired.
Following Albert’s death in 1983, Blanche remained in Coronach, enjoying her home, yard, family, friends and her church. In 1986 Blanche moved to Calgary to be near her daughter Faye and family. She moved to the Pincher Creek area in 1999 and resided at the York Creek Lodge until 2005 when she moved to the Care Centre in Blairmore, AB, where she resided until her passing.
She was predeceased by; her parents George and Bertha Ranson, her 5 brothers; Harley, George William in infancy, Stanley, Fred and Blake and her husband of 50 years Albert. Blanche is survived by a son, James (Elaine) Willford and a daughter Faye (Keith) Dawson; 4 grandchildren, Cindy Kessler, Orin, Trent and Kevin Dawson; 4 great-grandchildren, Ryan, Shane (Miranda) and Shanisse Dawson, Cailin (Ashley) Kessler; 2 great-great-grandchildren, James Kessler and Ethan Dawson, 1 sister-in-law Phyllis Ranson as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.
She has been steadfast in her role as mother, wife and grandmother, a strong supporter of her community, church, neighbours and friends. Next to her family, she had a lifelong love of books and gardening and will always be remembered for her loving and giving ways and her always present Irish humor.
Mom was a resident at Crowsnest Pass Long Term Care for nearly 5 years and the family wishes to thank all of the staff for their loving and compassionate care given to mom during this time. We very much appreciate your dedication and wonderful caring support extended to us during Mom’s final hours.
At Blanche’s request, there will be a private family memorial service in Coronach, SK, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Blanche’s name to the charity of your choice.
Honoured to serve the family, CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta T1K 7B1. Telephone (403) 381-7777. E-mail: care@cornerstonefh.ca
