Marie Mitson, beloved wife of Dr. Walter Mitson, passed away peacefully at home on June 3, 2011 at the age of 80 years.

She is survived by her loving husband Walter, along with her three children; Layne (Marilyn), Denise (Grant), and Joyce (Brian); her grandchildren Ben, Mackenzie, Kyra, Nolan, Alyssa and Austin; her sister Anne Overn and her nephew Rob Overn (Janice).

She is predeceased by her parents Doris Verbovni, Mikolai Zelenko and her stepfather Alex Verbovni.

Marie was born in Wolczkowce, Poland, of Ukrainian descent, in 1930. Her father immigrated to Canada in 1930, and began working for the CPR. He purchased a farm near Coaldale with the Zalaski's, and brought the family over in 1938 when Marie was eight. She grew up there, attending school in Coaldale, and finished at Henderson Business College. She met Walter, the love of her life in 1955, and they were married the same year.

Marie inspired us with her tremendous work ethic. She was always creating something wonderful in her kitchen, and could never keep up the demand for her butter tarts. Marie and Walter's garden stocked many pantries with home canning. She also did the books for Dad's company, and managed to keep Dad organized, not an easy task. She was the quiet strength of our family.

Although she and Dad traveled many times, she was truly happiest at home, and loved time spent with family and friends. They entertained often, but she was blessed with being completely content to sit in a quiet corner and read a good book. She spent many happy days golfing at the Lethbridge Country Club with the famous Nine Holers, enjoying the company she was in as much as the golf. She will be greatly missed by her family and many friends.

At Marie's request, there will be a private graveside service at Mountain View Cemetery.

There will be a Memorial Reception at the Lethbridge Lodge, Tuesday, June 7, 2011 from 2:00-4:00 PM, and friends are invited to share their memories.

Donations in memory of Marie may be made to www.conquercancer.ca, sponsor Nolan Still.