Wilma Christina Ellen Plenty

It is with sadness we announce the passing of Wilma Christina Ellen Plenty on the morning of October, 6, 2021 at her home at the Lion's Prairie Manor at the age of 93.

Wilma was born at the Portage la Prairie General Hospital on December 11, 1927 and was the only child of William James and Ivy (nee Cooper) Plenty. 

Wilma grew up north of Portage and attended the one room, Dale and Euclid Schools. 

She re-counted many fond memories growing up on the farm, one being the first time she saw an airplane flying over the fields in the late 1930's. This was a memory that she often shared and an event which infused an enthusiasm for aircraft and flying, that led to her final career post. 

As a young women, Wilma travelled to the Rocky Mountains in 1949 and 1950 to work at the Chateau Lake Louise.

After this adventure, she began a 27-year career at the T. Eaton Company in Portage, which concluded when the catalogue / mail order division closed. 

Wilma enjoyed her employment at Eaton’s and it was through this job she made many lifelong friendships and acquaintances.

Assorted clerical jobs followed until she landed her dream job at Southport with the Flight School which she held for 14 years. This was a job that she took very seriously and was saddened when the position ended due to the closing of operations at Southport in 1992.

Wilma was committed to providing for her family. She cared for her elderly parents until their passing, while raising her son, in a time when a single parent was a rarity. 

She was a very active volunteer with the Ladies Auxiliary at the ANAF No. 13 as a Life Member on the Executive acting as Treasurer.  

After retirement she was also a dependable volunteer at the Portage Library. 

Wilma had a spirited sense of humour. She was known for her many 'Wilma-isms'. Some that couldn’t be repeated in polite company.  ;)

In recent years she endured many health hardships but rarely complained. She often said: “Do the best you can, with what you have”.

She found comfort and security at the Lion's Prairie Manor, and as her final place of residence, and truly considered it her home. 

Wilma loved old time music and she loved to dance. 

She will be missed.  

Predeceased by her parents William and Ivy Plenty.

Left to mourn her passing, her only son William Plenty (Suzy Laevens); cousins Lindsay and Margaret Munro among other cousins and friends. 

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at the Lion's Prairie Manor for their care and attention 

and to Dr. David Kinnear and Dr. Patrick Rice for their exceptional care, advice, and understanding over the years.

There will not be a formal service. A private interment will follow at a later date.

If friends so desire, donations may be made in Wilma's memory to the Lion's Prairie Manor, Portage la Prairie

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