Obituaries

 

Marlene "Mitzi" Johnston

Passed 07/06/2022

Text:

Obituary For Marlene "Mitzi" Johnston

JOHNSTON, Marlene Margaret "Mitzi", of Bedford, Nova Scotia, passed away peacefully at Northwood Halifax on July 6, 2022, at 90 years of age. Born on May 6, 1932 in Halifax, she was the only child of Ernest and Hilda (Golden) Peek. Mitzi was tragically predeceased by her son Gregory in 1964, and is survived by her daughter Karen (John) and grandchildren, Sarah and Gregory Hutchins.

Strength, perseverance and her faith in God, helped her survive the loss of her only son. Her personal tragedy could not stifle her wonderful sense of humour and wit. She was gregarious and a natural-born entertainer who loved to tell a joke or a funny story. Mitzi loved music and enjoyed playing piano and guitar. She and her lifelong best friend Eva Hayes, led many a singsong at events and family parties.

Mitzi will be remembered as a strong and independent force of nature. She was an inspirational role model to her daughter and to many others in her life. She was an early feminist by action, if not by conscious ideology. She was a leader, a woman who was in many ways ahead of her time. Despite gender disparities in the workplace, her determined personality and work ethic allowed her to shatter several glass ceilings during her 33-year career with CN Rail, where she rose to and retired as Regional Manager of the System Rating Centre in London, Ontario.

Mitzi was a talented athlete. She competed with the Stadacona swim team of Halifax. She was a graduate of Mount Saint Vincent Academy and a fierce competitor on the Mount basketball team. Later in life she spent her winters at the CFB Halifax Curling Club and eventually her summers at Oakfield Golf and Country Club, where she served several years as ladies' president. Mitzi holds the honour of achieving three holes- in -one throughout her golfing career in which she participated until she was 81 years of age. When she wasn’t participating in sport or spending time with family and friends her faith led her to be involved in the church. While a member of St. John Vianney parish she taught the Romans 8 program and later as a member of St. Ignatius parish she volunteered with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul.

Mitzi’s pride and joy were her daughter and two grandchildren. She was so proud of their accomplishments and successes but more importantly she admired their kindness toward others. Her cousins Rose Ewing (deceased) and Barb Downie were like sisters to Mitzi, they grew up together and were always a support to one another. During these last few years Barb was a constant voice on the phone to help Mitzi endure the isolation of Covid-19 in a long-term care facility.

Mitzi’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the staff of 4 Manor Northwood Halifax, who provided her with compassion and love throughout her three years as a resident.

A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Ignatius Church in Bedford on Wednesday July 27 at 12.15 pm, followed immediately by the rite of committal and burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Lower Sackville.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of condolence may be made through a donation to the Alzheimer Society of Nova Scotia or the Northwood Foundation.

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Condolences

  • 07/26/2022

    Paul Garrison

    Karen we were saddened to learn that your mother had passed away. Mitzi was always such a wonderful friend to Eva and we enjoyed talking with her when we visited them before they moved to Northwood. We only saw Eva a couple of times since then but we had talked to your mother who told us that Eva didn't recognize anyone. Paul calls to check on Eva but he now has health problems that prevent him from going where he may put himself at risk. We are so sorry that we won't be able to attend the funeral and get to see you in person. Please accept our deepest condolences. May Mitzi Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory. Love from Paul & Jean Garrison

  • 07/13/2022

    Lorraine Gates

    My condolences on Mitzi's passing. I served on the Oakfield Ladies Executive when she was President. It was always enjoyable to play with Mitzi in our Wednesday Golf Group and socialize with her in the Club House. Lorraine Gates

  • 07/13/2022

    Stacey Maclean

    Mitzi will be missed great here at NW. I'm glad I had the pleasure to met and care for her. She was one of kind. Sending thoughts and prayers.

  • 07/13/2022

    Patty Chekhin

    I remember Aunt Mitzi when I was growing up, she seemed such a character and I was a little intimidated. But, as I got older, I realized she was just a very independent and strong woman. Condolences to Karen and the family . Patty xoxo

  • 07/12/2022

    Cheryl Scotland

    To Mitzi's family and Friends, On behalf of the Oakfield Ladies Division, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy. Mitzi was a devoted member of Oakfield Golf and Country Club. She served as President of our Ladies Division and was a big supporter of women's golf. Mitzi was our first Ladies Super Senior Champion who won the title in 2005, 2007 and 2008. Mitzi's wit and no nonsense approach will be fondly remembered. May she rest in peace. -Cheryl Scotland, President Oakfield Ladies Division

  • 07/12/2022

    Gerry Hann

    Karen, we are thinking of you and yours during this difficult time. As you open yourselves up to the pain of loss may your hearts blossom with the blooms of happiness from your mom's love and your lives with her.

  • 07/12/2022

    Diane Burns

    Oh How I enjoyed playing golf with Mitzi at Oakfield. I loved her sense of humour. I missed her at Oakfield. My love to her daughter and grandchildren. Diane Burns

  • 07/11/2022

    Mark MacPhee

    Karen, Thinking of you on your moms passing. You were a wonderful daughter and she was so proud of you and your kids. My love to you and your family. Mark MacPhee

  • 07/11/2022

    Bruce Downie

    Karen, I am so sorry for the loss of "Aunt" Mitzi. She was always good to me and, as you put it so well, she was always the one to have us in stitches laughing at her descriptions of events in life! Our conversations of late were brief but still I relished the opportunity to call and check in. I will miss Mitzi too. Love, Bruce.

  • 07/11/2022

    Sue Creaser

    This is a beautifully written tribute to your mom. I know how incredibly proud she was of you and the kids. I also know that your mom felt like she was an important part of you and your kids' lives because you always made sure that was the case. By doing so you ensured that Mitzi will live on in them. She is now at peace after a life well lived. ~ Suzie

  • 07/11/2022

    Catherine Bouliane

    Karen your mother sounds like she was a force. What a beautiful tribute to the amazing life she lead. I wished I would have gotten to know her. You are her legacy and I'm Sure she was so proud of you. You emulate her beautifully. Take care my friend and know she is with you always. Catherine

Tributes

  • 4 TREES

    Heidi MacInnes planted 4 trees in memory of Marlene "Mitzi" Johnston . - 07/11/2022

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