With both sadness and gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of Marion Marlene Ann Graham on November 2nd at the age of 91. While she will be deeply missed, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace.

Marion was a generous woman who loved treating others and making them feel special. She also took great pride in her appearance and always enjoyed looking her best. She loved getting dressed up and enjoying the finer things in life, whether it was travelling, shopping, going out for a nice dinner, visiting the casino or attending a theatre performance. But she was just as happy in her barn clothes, working hard around the farm and tending to the animals she loved. She also enjoyed music, going to church, playing cards with friends and, of course, never turned down something sweet!

After completing her business education, Marion worked in a bank in Midland. She soon married Lorne and spent many hours managing their farm operation. Marion went on to own and operate Elm Flower Shoppe, which she later sold in 1978. Marion continued to be busy as an integral part of her family business DLG Farm Drainage. In her earlier years, she was also a proud member of the Saurin Women's Institute. She had a special place in her heart for her cats, dogs, cows and sheep, and enjoyed helping with 4-H. Her love of farming has become part of her family's legacy, something that has been passed down through the generations and continues today.

Throughout her life, she shared many chapters and memories with Lorne. She later spent many wonderful years with her longtime partner Ben, sharing their love of animals and treasured time together at the veterinary clinic. Her lifelong friendship with Jack continued through the years and grew into a special companionship in her later life. They shared many wonderful times together, with travelling, playing board games and reminiscing about the good old days among their favourite pastimes.

Marion was predeceased by her parents, Alvin and Mae Johnston, and her brothers, Morris and Murray. She was incredibly proud of her own family, especially her two sons, Douglas and Gregory. She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Lisa, her cherished grandchildren, David (Sarah), Ashley (Jeremy) and Robert (Hailey), and her seven precious great-grandchildren, J.R., Georgia, Lauren, Mae, Claire, Lainey and Conrad.

Her grandchildren will always remember the time they spent with her, the laughs they shared and, of course, all the fun they had teasing her. Marion had a wonderful sense of humour and certainly knew how to give it right back! 

Marion had many close friends with whom she shared countless laughs and wonderful memories, the Temolder's, Swan's and Morris's, just to name a few. She and her closest friend Lien, were always up to a prank or two or ready for a road trip heading North. Her cousin Brenda shared a special bond with her, and the two spent many days tending to the cows and keeping the farm looking tip top. Next-door neighbours Isobel, Trev and the girls were much more than neighbours; they were considered family and shared many special occasions with the Graham's. 

She loved bringing everyone together to celebrate birthdays, accomplishments and all of life's special moments. And now, one last time, we will come together to celebrate the life of our wonderful mom, grandma and dear friend.

A celebration of her life will be held in late November (Additional service details to follow)

Our family would like to extend a huge thank you to the Staff at the Villa in Midland for their tremendous care and compassion they gave to Mom.  
 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Marion’s memory may be made to Sick Kids Hospital or OSPCA.