Obituary of Mary Helen Purdue

Mary Purdue a long time resident of Tumbler Ridge, B.C. passed away on Saturday, September 5, 2015 in Dawson Creek, at the age of 75 years. Mary married her husband Gordon in Gaslgow, Scotland on October 15, 1960. Six children were to follow; two daughters and three sons were born in Scotland, and one daughter born in Canada. Later would come fourteen grandchildren and six great grandchildren, also born in Canada. In 1970, Mary and Gordon brought their five kids to Canada. It was a tough start for them landing in New Toronto and starting from scratch. Mary never complained, though later in life when speaking of those days, she would always speak of the fun times. To her, the hard times were all part of being a mother. She loved her family unconditionally, even as adults her children and grandchildren could call her any time for council or just to talk. She would always make herself available and loved the opportunity to talk with her family and lend guidance. Mary was intelligent, loved scripture, literature, poetry, genealogy, and the teachings of the Catholic saints with her favorite saint being St. Teresa, the little flower. She also loved the opportunity to tell stories to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren of her upbringing on her family farm in Donegal, Ireland. She spoke fondly of her mother and father, brothers and sisters, as well as her extended family. With her animated facial expressions, hand gestures, and great storytelling ability, she taught the family's history. The greatest example of Mary's love for her family was her continual prayers for her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. During her battle with cancer, the pain she experienced was offered up for all her family as well. The Purdue family would like to thank: Dr. Helm, the nursing staff and all those who provided care. Your personal relationship with Mary went above and beyond health care and was very much appreciated. All those within the Holy Cross Parish and the community who brought numerous meals throughout the week prior to the funeral, as well as providing the luncheon after the funeral. We were sustained by your gifts of love. There are no words that can truly express the support and love we feel. Mary was predeceased by her parents Andrew and Margret Mooney, and her brother Andrew Mooney Jr. Mary is survived by her husband Gordon, her brother Gerard, her sister Kathleen, and her children: Lynn, Caroline, Christopher, Gerard, Gordon Jr., and Lizette, along with fourteen grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Monday, September 14, 2015 at 11:00 am at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Tumbler Ridge. Fr. Andy Takach officiated. Interment followed in the Tumbler Ridge Cemetery. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Mary to the Holy Cross Catholic Church Box 1022, Tumbler Ridge, B.C. V0C 2W0. Very Respectfully Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium Mass of Christian Burial 11:00 am Monday, September 14, 2015 Holy Cross Catholic Church 103 Commercial Way Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia, Canada