Margaret Lawrence
July 18, 1918 –
December 10, 2005
Margaret Lawrence was born in Innerleithen, Scotland in 1918. She moved to Trail, BC in 1925. Margaret Melrose grew up surrounded by lots of relatives and lots of music. She sang and played the accordion, has played in a small band, and performed with Music Makers.
Margaret worked for Cominco, and when she was transferred to the mercury mine at Pinchi Lake in 1940, she missed meeting her future husband by one month. After WWII they met in Yellowknife and were married in October 1947.
Margaret and Phil transferred back to Trail in 1952. They had 2 children, Bill and Joanne. Years were spent in Riondel, Trail, and finally a transfer to Fort St. James in 1970. Margaret spent most of her time raising her family, with time set aside for music and art. Margaret was a talented worker with soft pastels.
Margaret and Phil spent a number of happy retirement winters in Arizona. After Phil passed away in 1992, Margaret remained in “the Fort”. Margaret suffered with severe arthritis, and eventually developed Alzheimer’s. She spent the last 3 years at both Omineca Lodge and Stuart-Nechako Manor. Throughout her journey, she maintained a sense of dignity and a notable sense of humour. She will be missed by many.
Margaret is survived by her son Bill Lawrence (Lynne) of Seward, Alaska, daughter Joanne Vinnedge (Grant) of Fort St. James, and grandchildren Robin, Wade, Laura and Eric.
A memorial service was held December 17, 2005 at the St. Patrick’s Anglican/United Church in Fort St. James.