WANLESS, LOUISE MILDRED

Louise Mildred Wanless Nov. 3,1921 - Jan. 29, 2021 In her 100th year, Louise Wanless passed away peacefully in Barrie. Devoted wife of the late Archie Wanless for 60 years. Loved Mother to Warren (Jean), Sharon Corbett (Bruce), Janet Sutherland (Dave) and Peter (Pam). Proud grandmother to Lindsay, Graham, Alissa, Drew, Mitchell, Michael, Tyler, Megan, Erica, Kristin and, to her delight, GG to 13 great-grandchildren and counting … Pre-deceased by sisters Helen and Myra. Fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews. Louise was blessed throughout her life with good health, boundless energy and a sense of adventure and curiosity. She accepted life challenges and changes with a quiet strength, a positive attitude and a good sense of humour. Louise felt she was a lucky lady and often commented, “I’ve had a good life!” and “What would I do without family!” Louise was born and raised on a farm near Harwood, Ontario. She excelled at school and, after completing one year at McMaster University, she attended Normal School in Peterborough. At the age of 18, she went on to teach in one-room schoolhouses in Camborne, Burks Falls and SS # 7 Huth School in Flos Township( Springwater). It was in this community where she met Archie Wanless, a local farmer. Knowing the hard work involved, she had declared that she would never marry a farmer. But she did. After moving to a farm on the 4th of Flos, Louise became a “working Mom” for a few years, teaching at SS #11 Flos. She left teaching to take care of her growing family. Her huge vegetable garden, berry patches, preserves, hearty meals, apple pies and fudge were enjoyed by many. She often spoke of the wonderful friends and families in this farming community. Louise enjoyed a variety of interests. She was an avid letter writer, a news correspondent for local newspapers, was active in the Women’s Institute for over 70 years, a member of Knox Flos Presbyterian Church, a 4H-Homemaking Club Leader and a member of the Barrie Genealogical Society. In later years, she and Archie enjoyed playing cards at the Seniors Centres in Elmvale and Barrie. Together they camped locally and across Canada and travelled to many places in the world. The family is grateful to her for leaving a written record of life stories and family histories, plus many photo albums and scrapbooks of special events. The family deeply appreciate the fine care she received over the past few years. Louise looked forward to any conversation with staff and enjoyed kibitzing and telling her story. Louise’s life has touched us all in many different ways; a life that will continue to be treasured and celebrated. We will miss you Mom, Grandma, GG! Donations in her memory can be made through Lynn-Stone Funeral Home to Knox Flos Presbyterian Church or the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre in Barrie. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences and memories may be forwarded to the Lynn-Stone Funeral Home, Elmvale, ON.