Mary Anne Swan (nee St Sauveur) was born on Mar 1, 1931 in Desmarais passed away peacefully on Dec 31, 2016 in Athabasca, at the age of 85 years.
She is survived by her children Rachael Woodcox, Leo (Laurel Loiselle), Alma, Victor, William (Susan), Philip (Sandra), Randy, Sharlene, Clifford, Nora (Wayne Sphone), Robin Berard, brother Jonas Dumont, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and their families.
She was predeceased by her husband, Clarence in 2002, sons Edward in 2013, Raymond in 2015 & Emery in 1966, and grandson Brandon in 2001.
Mary Anne attended residential school in Desmarais. She met and married Clarence Swan on July 10, 1949 in Smith, Alberta. Throughout her life, she worked at Extendicare, Commissionaire at the Athabasca RCMP Detachment, and Cree Translator at the Provincial Court in Athabasca. The organizations she was involved with over the years, included the Metis Association, Athabasca Native Friendship Centre, and Athabasca Royal Canadian Legion Branch 103. In 1999, she was honoured with an Esquao Award for Aboriginal Women who brought positive changes to their communities and inspiration to others. Later, Mary Anne received Status under the Indian Act and membership to the Bigstone Cree Nation.
In addition to being a loving wife, mother and grandmother, Mary Anne enjoyed dancing, knitting, crocheting, beading & leather work, tanning hides & making dry moose meat. During the last 3 years living at Extendicare, Mary Anne took part in many of the activities, and always with a sweet smile and wonderful laugh that we will all remember her for.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at ATHABASCA COMMUNITY CHAPEL on Thursday, January 5, 2016 at 7:00pm.
A Funeral Mass will be held at ST. GABRIEL'S ROMAN CATHOLIC PARISH on Friday, January 6, 2016 at 2:00pm. Interment to follow at the Athabasca Community Cemetery.
Charitable donations may be made to:
Athabasca Extendicare
4517 - 53rd Street, Athabasca AB T9S 1K4
Tel: 1-780-675-2291
Email: cnh_athabasca@extendicare.com
Web: http://www.extendicareathabasca.com/contact/