Florence Turner

Peacefully, on June 11th, after a day spent outside with family and friends, Florence took her last breath.

Florence was born February 14, 1939, in MacGregor, Manitoba to Alice and Ormey Turner.

She was the oldest sibling to; Eileen Jones (Orville, deceased), (Everett, deceased), (Dianne, deceased), Jean Shelvey, (Lorne, deceased), Wes (deceased), (Karen), Bob (deceased), (Helen), Margaret Ferris (Russell, deceased), Dorothy (Richard) Demkey, Kathleen McMillan (Bill, deceased), Bev Young (Glen, deceased), Gordon (Val) Turner, Ed (Bev deSpiegelaere), Donna (Laurie) Harp, Patsy (Bill) Enns, Trevor, Bert (Penny).

Florence enjoyed a number of employment opportunities but the one she was most proud about and told the most tales about, was growing up the oldest and helping to raise her siblings. She had a story about each and every one of them.

Florence worked at Carnation Foods, where she drew a pension of just under $51. Can you imagine living on that!! She also worked at McCains Portage grading potatoes, and as a care giver for multiple families.

After moving to Portage, Florence enjoyed going to hockey games with Bev and Glen and all the coffee afternoons with her friends from Oddfellows, especially Angela and Maye. Florence was the driver and was always happy to take someone to an appointment or to get groceries or a coffee. She hated having to ask for help, but was always more than willing to give. Florence enjoyed many trips with her friend Maye and sisters Bev and Jean.

In early 2000 Florence received her health diagnosis and knew that eventually she would require dialysis. She was strong-willed and persevered through many appointments and the drive to Winnipeg and back with her trusty chauffeurs Darryl and Diana. The health care team always giggled when Dianna showed up with Florence’s health bible in her orange backpack, but Florence was happy knowing that she had all her information together if anyone else had to drive.

Eventually, over 20 years later, Florence had to start making numerous weekly trips for dialysis to Winnipeg. She was happy to be able to drive with Bernie as they knew each other from her coffee days. In late 2025, thanks to some extra care and concern from Dr. Finney, Florence was finally able to do dialysis in Portage. This was a turning point and she was much happier. In December of 2024, Florence made Lions Prairie Manor her home. She was once again with her friend Maye and enjoyed everything the Manor offered including country drives. But her last ride with Darryl and his family around Portage was a highlight and brought a sparkle to her eye when she talked about it.

Special thanks to all the caregivers from Lion’s Prairie Manor, especially Nurse Melanie who formed a special connection on day one!

The Sargeant has now gone, you will be missed!