Margaret Ann (Laing) Berens

Margaret Ann Berens, lovingly known as Marni, age 75, of Hinton, Alberta, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness and love that touched all who knew her.

Born on November 22, 1950, in Sarnia, Ontario, Marni was the third eldest of seven siblings and spent her early years surrounded by the beauty of southern Ontario. She often spoke fondly of time spent with her Aunt Elsie and Uncle Harry, of picking bouquets of wild violets in the surrounding fields, travelling with family to Lake Ipperwash, and enjoying summer days playing baseball. The changing seasons—especially the fall with its brilliant, colourful leaves—held a special place in her heart and remained a cherished memory throughout her life.

In her twenties, Marni moved to Yellowknife, NWT, where she formed lifelong friendships, deepened her faith in God, and embraced the unique beauty of the Northwest Territories, finding joy in the outdoors even during the harsh northern winters. There, she met her husband of 54 years, Lloyd, with whom she began raising her family. In her thirties, Marni and her family settled in Hinton, Alberta, which became her lifelong home.

Marni dedicated much of her working life as a town employee with the Hinton RCMP Detachment and the Yellowknife RCMP Detachment. Even in retirement, her commitment to serving others continued, first at the front desk of a local hotel and later working with Child Services.

A strong Christian woman, Marni’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She loved God deeply and lived out her faith through compassion, generosity, and genuine care for others. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in local churches—leading Bible studies, supporting children’s church, singing in choirs, and always lending a helping hand wherever needed. Marni had a heart for people and consistently showed grace and kindness to everyone she met. Known for her ever-present smile, she greeted all with warmth and a friendly hello, and she had a special gift for making people feel welcome—no one ever felt like a stranger around her.

Marni found joy in the simple things in life, delighting in nature—especially birds—reading books, doing puzzles, and singing throughout her day. Christmas held a special place in her heart; she cherished family gatherings, baking, and celebrating the birth of Christ. Above all, Marni treasured time spent with her family, particularly with her beloved granddaughter, who lovingly knew her as “Nana.”

As a child, Marni had three dreams: to visit the Pacific Ocean, to see the Rocky Mountains, and to travel to British Columbia. She fulfilled every one of those dreams—traveling to Hawaii in the 1970s, exploring many parts of British Columbia, and living most of her life at the base of the Rocky Mountains.

Marni is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Lloyd Berens; her daughters Terrianne Gamble (Chris) and Jenna D’Cruze (Craig); her cherished granddaughters Annabelle, Matilda, and Asha; and her beloved grandpuppy, Marla. She is also survived by her younger siblings Oran Laing, Arlene Perdue (John), Paul Laing, and Grant Laing (Wendy), as well as many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Gordon Laing and Violet Laing (née Broadbent); her older brothers, Delton Laing and Bruce Laing; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews, and dear friends.

Marni will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her gentle spirit, her joyful laughter, and the love she shared so freely. Her life was a beautiful reflection of God’s love, and she will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know her.

A Graveside Funeral Service celebrating Marni’s life will be held on December 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. MST at Woodlawn Cemetery in Hinton, Alberta.

 In place of flowers, the family encourages donations to Hope Mission in Edmonton, an organization close to Marni’s heart.

https://hopemission.com/locations/edmonton/

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness"

— Lamentations 3:22-23

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