Maria Barbara Gervais (nee Dufault), also well known as Nanny, started her journey at LaPasse, Ontario on January 14, 1929 and she was called home on June 23, 2020 at 91 years. She was the third of eleven children of Violet and David Dufault. She was a devoted wife to Dorion and a loving mother to Keith, Margaret, Murray and Frank. She cherished all her many grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
She finished her grade ten schooling in LaPasse before moving on to Ottawa for work. She was married in May 27, 1947 to Dorion after a short romance. Their family moved to Ardrossan Alberta in 1965, then Entrance, before settling in the Edson Area.
She is survived by her children Keith (Doreen) Gervais, Margaret (Clarence) Bowman, Murray (Dolly) Gervais and Frank Gervais; her grandchildren Tammy, Clint, Dustin, Jesse, Allan, Darren, Murray, Wesley, Carla and Wade and numerous great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren. She is survived by her siblings Majella Dufault, Rosemary Kelly and Nellie Winslow, nephews, nieces and cousins.
She was predeceased by her husband Dorion in 1997, and seven brothers and sisters.
Maria was happiest playing cards (Auction 45) and holding babies. Through the years she worked hard and enjoyed quilting, crocheting and reading as hobbies.
Nanny was laid to rest on June 29, 2020 at the Hattonford Cemetery after a small ceremony with family and friends. Arrangements made by the Foothills Memorial Chapel and lunch served by Beaver Meadow Agriculture Society.
Donations may be made in memory of Maria to the Canadian Diabetes Association in lieu of flowers.
Diabetes Canada, PO box 1224 Stn K, Toronto, ON M4P 9Z9 diabetes.ca 1-800-226-8464