Rose Elizabeth Nicholls

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rose Nicholls, at the age of 97, on November 23, 2019 with her daughters and granddaughter by her side.  

Rose was predeceased by her husband Archie, grandson Kevin, son Ray, and her brothers and sisters Fred, Buster, Peggy, Rita, Gordon and Don.  

She is survived by her brother Jim (Elaine) Butler; children Larry (Maureen) Nicholls, Marlene (Bob) Pragnell, Wendy Nicholls; grandchildren Christopher and Kirsten Quigley, Kelly (Vicki) Nicholls; great grandchildren Alex and Ronin Nicholls; and special friend Barry (Maureen) Thompson, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  

Rose was born on June 7, 1922 in Fortier, MB to William and Emily Butler, where she was raised with her 7 brothers and sisters.  in 1944 she married the love of her life Archie Nicholls, and they were married 47 amazing years before Archie's passing in 1991.  Together they raised their four children in Portage la Prairie before purchasing Midland Acres in 1977 where Rose continued to live at until her passing.  

Rose had a lifelong passion for horses and that is how many people came to know and love her.  She and Archie managed the Riding Academy in Portage, then purchased their first horse Rocket, who was the first of many horses that Rose would own and care for throughout her lifetime.  This love of horses led her to become a co-founder of the Portage Horse Club in 1962 and a leader for the Portage 4-H Canter Club for 27 years, where she shared her wisdom, knowledge, kindness and great sense of humour with many children.  This love of all things horses continued right up until her death.  She never missed watching the horse show at the Portage Ex in over 60 years.  Even this past summer Rose was ring side cheering on and encouraging the young riders.  

Rose was also known for her close relationship with her family.  At many family get togethers and dinners, Rose would be surrounded by relatives laughing, reminiscing, and sharing stories.  Rose never forgot a person, place or event.  She cooked Christmas dinner every year and continued to bake treats throughout the rest of the year for her family.  Rose had a special place in her heart for children and for many years she knit hats and mittens for Koats for Kids.  

Rose will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate to have known her.  She truly was one of a kind.  

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Portage General Hospital who made her transition from this life a comfortable and peaceful one.  

A come and go celebration of her life was held on Friday December 6, 2019 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion in Portage.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Rose Elizabeth Nicholls, please visit our floral store.