Jean Allison (Archer) Mutala

Suddenly after a brief and courageous battle with cancer, Jean Allison Mutala passed away peacefully with her family by her side, at the Portage General Hospital on Tuesday, November 7th, 2017 at the age of 80.

Loving Wife, Mother, and Grandmother, Mom was predeceased by her parents Sid and Elsie Archer, her Brother Jim (Faye) Archer, Sister in Law Jean Archer, and her twin sister who Jean referred to as “June”.

Mom is lovingly remembered and sadly missed by her two sons, Kevin (Wendy) and Kenny (Nancy), and Nanas Grandchildren Alyssa and Glen (Shoal). Also survived by her two brothers Dennis (Bev) and Wayne, as well as sister in laws, brother in laws, and families.

Mom was born on August 30th, 1937 in Portage la Prairie. She grew up on a farm where she was the eldest of four children. Mom received her education in the Portage area. After high school Jean met and married the love of her life Glen Saunders. They had two sons together. After Glen’s sudden death, Mom raised her two boys on her own.

Being a single mother, Mom entered the work force at Lions Prairie Manor starting as a receptionist and retiring as an Activities Program Director. Mom enjoyed her many years at the Manor.

Through her boys sports she met and married Tony Zimmerman. During 17 years of marriage they enjoyed spending a few winters in Arizona. After Tony passed Mom continued to travel, visiting her school pen-pal in England and many other destinations.

Mom found happiness again when she met and married Bill Mutala where they continued to travel together. Unfortunately due to Bills illness Mom lovingly cared for Bill until his recent passing in August.

Being involved in the community was important to Mom; she spent many years volunteering with COPP, Foresters, Southside Community Club, and Trinity United Church.

One of Moms greatest achievements was bringing line dancing to Portage, where she started classes at the Herman Prior Centre.

Throughout these activities mom made many lifelong friends.

Memorial service will be held at Trinity United Church on Monday, November 13, 2017 at 3:00 pm followed by lunch.

Should friends so desire memorial donations may be made on moms’ behalf to Sunset Palliative Care P. O. Box 92, Portage la Prairie, MB. R1N 3A7 or the Portage District General Hospital Foundation 524 Fifth Street S. E., Portage la Prairie, MB. R1N 3A8, .

We would like to thank the EMS crews and hospital staff. Also a special thank you to Dr. Dow for all the support he gave Mom and the family during this difficult time.

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