October 10, 1939 - March 26, 2016
In the early hours of March 26, 2016 Marge passed away peacefully at the Kootenay Boundary Regional Hospital.
Marge was the eldest of 12 children born to Bert and Ann Simmons in Rich Lake, AB. At age 4, her parents moved to Oasis, BC and then to Passmore, BC. There Marge met, fell in love with and married Emil Gustafson in 1957. They started their married life living on the Gustafson homestead property at Perry Siding. There they raised their 2 children, Barry & Judy as well as many foster children they opened their home to over the years.
In the early 70’s they formed and operated Gustafson Logging Ltd. Right up until Emil’s retirement in 1990. After Emil’s death in 1998, Marge move to Castlegar, then Trail and eventually settled in Warfield where she resided until her death.
Marge was a volunteer at the Canadian Cancer Society, Trail Hospice and Meals on Wheels for a short time. She loved to paint, sew, knit, crochet, garden and cook. In the summer, Marge’s garden and yard were a testament to her green thumb. Flowers always adorned her table and the fresh vegetables were used to create many savoury meals which she served with love. No one ever left Marge’s table hungry.
Marge is survived by her daughter Judy (Ron) McLachlan, grandchildren; Amanda (Jason) Panchiv, Ryan (Amber) McLachlan and Cam (Stacie) Gustafson, her great-grandchildren; Zach, Tim, Stephanie, Emily, Cale, Chloe, Landen and Ethan. She also leaves behind a very special friend and companion Bob Johnston. She is predeceased by her parents Bert and Ann Simmons, her husband Emil and her beloved son Barry.
At Marge’s request, there will not be a funeral service. The family will be gathering privately during the summer to scatter Marge’s ashes along with Emil’s and Barry’s as well.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online register at www.myalternatives.ca