MARY FINNIE

1935 ~ 2012
“A Candle gives its light so
others may have light”

The light in the life of Mary Finnie went out on November 11, 2012 and her light is reflected in the lives of those who survive her.  Predeceased by her husband, Grant, she leaves her four children:  Sandra Buchanan (Jack Jones), Cheryl Finnie, Chris (Jack) Long, Ken (Angie) Finnie; her grandchildren, Les Finnie (Corry Wahl), Jim (Melissa) Buchanan, Donald Buchanan (Chantel), Kevin Buchanan (Ashley), Jolene Buchanan, Amy (Jake) Robins, David and Sarah Long, Camille and Mack Finnie.  Mary was blessed to share the life of her most precious great-grandchildren,  Makenna and Nixon Finnie, and Madeline and Joshua Buchanan.  Mary was born February 4, 1935, in North Battleford, Saskatchewan.  Her parents, Ken and Tina Moore, moved to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, when Mary was 10 years old.  She and her sister Viola, went to Pleasant Hill School, then Mary entered into nursing school at St. Paul’s Hospital.  She met and fell in love with the dashing football quarterback from Nutana School.  She and Grant were married September 25, 1954 and settled in Saskatoon where their children, Sandra and Cheryl were born.  Grant’s job moved them to Swift Current, Saskatchewan, where they made many lasting friendships.  Shortly following the birth of their third daughter, Chris, they were transferred to Swan River, Manitoba. Mary was very involved with her children’s activities over the years, and in 1966, they were blessed with the birth of their son, Ken.  In 1972, Mary and Grant took a huge leap and purchased a tire dealership in Medicine Hat and this is where their home has been for the past forty years.  Mary loved to take on new challenges, and had numerous interesting vocations over the years, including ownership of a floral shop, and working in a travel agency.  Mary carried a song in her heart and a smile on her face throughout the many ups and downs in her life. She shared a life in music in church and community choirs in Saskatoon, Swift Current, Swan River and Medicine Hat. She celebrated her Canadian heritage with enthusiasm and pride.  Mary will be fondly remembered for her wonderful sense of humour, and her independent spirit.  The Funeral Service will be held at Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church, 476 – 4 Street S.E., Medicine Hat on Friday, November 16, 2012, at 4:00 P.M. with Reverend Kevin Johnston officiating.  Memorial donations in Mary’s name may be made directly to the Margery E. Yuill Cancer Centre, 666 – 5th Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4H6 or to Fifth Avenue Memorial United Church, 476 – 4 Street, S.E., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 0K6.  Honoured to serve the family is COOK SOUTHLAND FUNERAL CHAPEL, 901 – 13 Street S.W., Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1A 4V4. Telephone: 527-6455