Maureen Helen Ranaghan

Born June 3, 1929, Maureen Helen Ranaghan passed away peacefully at Father Lacombe Care Centre in Calgary on October 5, 2019. She leaves Peter, Andrea, Jaelyn and Jean as well relatives in Ireland and the United States, and many friends throughout the world.  Maureen spent 20 years with the Faithful Companions of Jesus and was given the name Sister Mary Patrick.  She had a lifelong passion for education and learning and taught school in Toronto and Calgary and enjoyed participating in many St. Mary’s High School reunions. Maureen obtained her master’s degree in Education from the University of Calgary in 1977 with an innovative thesis: Language, Dreams and Learning. She left teaching to manage the Thomas J. Ranaghan Foundation established by her father and became a well-known community leader and philanthropist.  Marureen’s many projects reflected her deep belief in the Gospel message and in the role of technology in proclaiming the Word.  Her projects included Genesis Education Society (e.g.,  Creative Writing Toolbook),  Sylvan Prayer Centre, Ranaghan Studio and Theatre, Victory Village, support for St. Mary’s University and philanthropy work all around the world with an orphanage in India, a project in Manila and sponsorship of many children through Chalice and other organizations. Maureen greeted each day with a sense of humour and high energy. She enjoyed music and singing, her cottage at Sylvan Lake and a condo in Hawaii and travelled the world.  Maureen read voraciously, dealt with the big questions of life and was always willing to listen to a person who was down and out. Many of us are fortunate and grateful for having met Maureen Ranaghan/Sister Mary Patrick.  She had a strong belief in God and the ecumenical spirit, and we rejoice in the kindness of God taking her home. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Ascension Catholic Church (1100 Berkshire Blvd. NW) on Thursday, October 10, 2019 at 11:30am with reception to follow in the parish hall. Graveside service at St. Mary’s Cemetery.  If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Father Lacombe Care Centre (270 Providence Blvd. SE, Calgary AB, T2X 0V6; 587-393-1353; foundation@fatherlacombe.ca). 

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