Bertha May White

On Sunday, March 24, 2024, Bertha May White (née McFarlane) passed away peacefully with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at her side. She left this world at her home in St. Claude, MB, at the age of 75, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Bertha was born in McCreary, MB, and was the beloved daughter of the late Douglas and Dora McFarlane. Growing up in a family of 11 children, she shared her life with 7 brothers, 3 sisters, and their families.

Her surviving brothers include Edward McFarlane of AB, Wayne McFarlane (whose late wife, Aurise, passed away in March 2024) of MB, Raymond McFarlane of AB, Robert McFarlane of AB, Gordon McFarlane of SK, and Larry McFarlane of AB. Sisters Donna Hildebrandt (whose husband, Garry, passed away in 2018) of SK and Verla Edgeworth of AB also mourn her passing. Bertha was predeceased by her sister Doris McFarlane of MB in 2017 and her brother Howard McFarlane of SK in 2021.

Bertha’s legacy lives on through her children: Teresa McFarlane of AB, Ronald McFarlane of AB, Shelley (whose late husband, Richard, passed away in 2020) of MB, Sherry McFarlane-White of MB, and Kevin White of AB. Tragically, she also experienced the loss of her 16-year-old son, Roland McFarlane, in 1986.

Her 16 grandchildren—Nicole (Stephan), Kaitlyn, Timothy, Jessica (Joey), Candace (Rob), Jody (Jacob), Justin (Nicole), Colin (Taylor), Rachelle, Wendy, Andrew, Thomas, Charlie, Jasmine, and Christopher—will forever cherish their memories of her. Sadly, Bertha also mourned the tragic passing of her 20-year-old grandson, Allan Garrioch, in 2020.

In addition to her grandchildren, Bertha was blessed with 14 great-grandchildren: Dylan, Abigail, Karson, Owen, Ethan, Caleb, Emmett, Willow, Sage, Lisa, Zachary, Oliver, Blue, and Kara. And the littlest member of the family, pup Ella.

Bertha’s life journey took her through several small towns in Manitoba. She spent most of her adult years in Portage la Prairie, rural Portage, and St. Claude, where she resided at the time of her passing. While working and living in these areas over the years it allowed her to be near family and long-time friends. Mom enjoyed having family close which allowed her to meet all the grandchildren and great grandchildren. Having her grandson Justin, his wife Nikki (Nicole) and their children move to St Claude brought her great joy. She could see the great grandkids often, plus enjoy Nikki’s great baking, bragging how great her buns were.

Mom enjoyed entertaining family and friend at her home, spending time with the grandchildren and their families, gardening (sharing tips with granddaughter) and canning to share with family and friends. Grandchildren and their own kids playing in her yard and garden.  Spending time on shopping trips with granddaughters, traveling around with friends sharing lots of laughs. Attended family weddings and graduations in MB and AB. Having ice cream and treats at hand for grandchildren.

Later years set her sights on making quilts for her little ones.

Predeceased by her parents Douglas and Dora McFarlane. Son Roland McFarlane (1986) and grandson Allan Garrioch (2020). Spouses Charles White (2005) and Jim Gladue (2003) Sister Doris McFarlane (2017), brother Howard McFarlane (2021), Brother-in-law Garry Hildebrandt (2018), Son in Law Richard Hopkins (2020), Niece Cylina McFarlane in 2023, Sister-in-law Aurise McFarlane (2024).

Love and hugs to daughter Sherry, Justin and Nikki and their family for all the support provided to mom during her cancer illness and getting her to appointments. Plus, all family that helped, we are grateful. Also, friends that helped during this time, Sandy, Tammy, Jeannie, our appreciation. Dr’s, Nurses and support staff that supported and answered all our questions. Palliative Home Care RN Giselle Jeffrey for her compassion, support in moms last days. Heartfelt appreciation for all the care provided during this difficult time from professionals, family and friends. Our family is grateful.

Wishing our family comfort and peace for recent losses. Hope and healing for those currently battling cancer, thoughts are with you.

Cremation will take place with a graveside service to take place at a later date and time in Portage la Prairie, MB.

To share memories and leave condolences, please visit www.ronaldmoffitmemorialservices.com

Ronald Moffit Memorial Services in care of arrangements.

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