PARKES, Mary (Brethour) (nee GOARD) - Peacefully, on December 24, 2022, with her granddaughter Jessica at her side, at Lakeridge Health Oshawa, in her 96th year.
Beloved wife of the late Douglas Parkes (2002) and the late Don Brethour (1956).
Loving and devoted mother of Wayne (Patty) Brethour, Brian (Edith) Brethour, Gary (Laurel) Brethour and Debbie (Jim) Cullen.
Proud grandma of Jessica (Steve) Vivian, Graeme (Mariel) and Lauren Brethour, Christopher (Jennifer) Dechamplain, Christina (Tim) Thomson, and Geoffrey (Brandi) DeMille.
Great-grandma of Kendall Vivian, Aleyea Dechamplain, Erin (Patrick) Gabar and Clayton Thomson. Great-great-grandma of Eleazar Gabar Mary, had a life that spanned generations, growing up as a farm girl and moving into an executive support role in Toronto, long before it was typical of women.
She loved her hours spent knitting for children at Sick Kids Hospital and the Salvation Army.
Her favorite times were spent visiting and talking with family and friends and taking care of her birds.
She was also an avid reader and remained acutely aware of both local and world events, often expressing her views.
Mary was a nurturer and leaves a legacy of love, laughter, perseverance and forgiveness.
Mary worked for Cancer Care Ontario for many years. We invite you to make a donation to Cancer Care Ontario in her memory, in lieu of sending flowers to the family. A small celebration of life will be held in the spring.
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