Death Notices

Walker, Mary Winnifred Virgine, it is with heavy hearts we send Winnie onward. Winnie passed away at the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home on Monday, July 29th, 2024 in her 100th year. Winnie studied nursing and completed a successful 30-year career in the operating rooms of St. Joseph’s Hamilton followed by several years in the medical department at Firestone in Hamilton. Following her retirement, she returned to the Gilbert historical home that she shared with her mother for many years and hosted annual Walker-Evans’ family picnics. Well into her early 90s she continued to keep the ancestral home and property looking its best. Winnie shared a passion for genealogy as her mother’s assistant in the compilation and publication of the Gilbert family descendants of Isaac-United Empire Loyalist and as a volunteer at the Eva Brook Donly Museum.  She travelled with friends and family to a variety of destinations including a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. A lover of classical music, books, puzzles, crosswords and spirited games of euchre kept her sharp throughout. Dear sister of Clare Van Kessel (late Ted) of Simcoe. An adored Aunt to twelve nieces and nephews and Great Aunt to a clan of next generation Walkers/Van Kessels and their families. Predeceased by her parents Nathaniel and Harriet Walker and her brothers and sisters-in-law: Murray, May, Ronald, Ruth and Richard Walker.  Friends are invited to share their memories of Winnie with her family at the JASON SMITH FUNERAL CHAPEL, 689 Norfolk St. North, Simcoe for visitation on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024 at 12 noon followed by a funeral Service in the chapel at 1 p.m. with Deacon Andy Alway officiating. Interment: St. Mary's Cemetery, Simcoe. Those wishing to donate in memory of Winnie are asked to consider a charity of one’s choice. Personal online condolences at www.smithfuneralchapel.com (519) 426-0199