Marian Erna Spring (nee Dixon)

Marian was born in Hamiota, Manitoba on March 9, 1932. She, her older brother Keith, and parents Ernest Dixon and Annie Andrew farmed just west of Hamiota near the former community of Lavinia. Marian left the farm to attend the University of Manitoba, graduating in 1953 with a BSc in Home Economics. She then moved to Alberta and took a job as a Home Economist working in the rural areas around Red Deer. 

John and Marian, having been sweethearts at University, married in 1955. They decided to accept an assignment to Venezuela when Chevron offered John the opportunity. They stayed nine years, had three children (Sharon, Don and Carol), and enjoyed exploring the entire region. At the same time, the connection to Manitoba remained strong and the family came back to Gimli and Hamiota for many summers. 

On the return to Alberta, Marian went back to University and gained an education degree.  Then, combining her two areas of expertise, she taught high school home economics for ten years in Edson. After a move to Calgary, Marian joined Sewing Machine World and spent many years helping people purchase machines and learn to sew including volunteering to teach new immigrants. 

John and Marian retired to a gracious home on Lake Bonavista in Calgary and there are many fond memories of the gatherings of friends and family - skating, boating, and meals around their big table.  She loved keeping active and was either walking in her neighbourhood or out at one of her favourite sports - curling, golf and cross-country skiing. Marian and John travelled regularly with the Caribbean being a favourite destination. 

She is survived and will be greatly missed by her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. 

In lieu of flowers please donate to the Calgary Hospital Foundation or treat yourself to a Foothills Hospital Home Lottery ticket (https://www.calgaryhealthtrust.ca/ https://tickets.foothillshospitalhomelottery.com)