
Vera Diane McGee
June 24, 1941 ~ November 26, 2016
It’s with extraordinary sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beautiful mother Vera Diane McGee, on Saturday, November 26, 2016, surrounded by her children. Diane was born June 24, 1941 in Woodbridge, Ontario to the late Vera Stiff and stepfather, the late Joseph Bibby. Devoted wife of the late Robert McGee; loved sister to the late Alvin Stiff (Peggy). Diane is survived by her beloved children and grandchildren: Jo-Anne and Colin Thain (Chance); LuAnne and Jim Turner (Barret, Talon and Devrann Wilton); RoseAnne and Mark Dalla Riva (Emma, Max and Sophie); BobbieAnne and Harold Mazar (Kalvyn and Colton) and Alan and Shannon and was also a proud great-grandmother and was fortunate enough to enjoy making some wonderful memories with them. Diane was also the adoptive mother of her nieces and nephew: Tim (Tyler), Tammy and the late Rosalind (Falon, Lance and Ashley). Mom was also affectionately known to many as “Auntie Di” and will be terribly missed by her cousins, in-laws, nieces and nephews and by her many friends. Diane grew up in Woodbridge and shared many fond memories of time spent with her grandfather, which brought her much joy, in her early years. She also accompanied her mother on many occasions when she went to work at the famous Mart Kenney Ranch, in Woodbridge, where outdoor dances were held. We think this is where mom got the first taste of her “entrepreneurial spirit”. At a very young age of 11, mom got her first job cleaning up the dance hall after the events and never looked back. Mom always lived her life to the fullest. From her days teaching at Banting Memorial High School – to running her own hair-dressing business – mom was always on the lookout for opportunities to grow as a person and to help others. About 25 years ago mom became the founder and creator of WINGS (Women In Networking Growing Strong) and has had the privilege of mentoring many to success. Mom had a genuine love of people and nothing brought her more joy than to see them reach their goals in life. Her love of all things “butterflies” will live on as a constant reminder of her admiration of the resilience of the butterfly. If they didn’t struggle to open their wings, they would die. And so she never let her struggles bring her down but used them to help her grow. Moms strong faith has always been the anchor in her life and she always tried to keep a balance that put God first, family and others, then herself last. Her beliefs gave her a beautiful hope for the future that helped her get through some of her own struggles in life, and she was blessed to be able to share her love and appreciation of our creator with others. Mom took great pleasure in watching her children and grandchildren grow and was always involved in their lives, making beautiful memories with them. She loved dinners with her children, playing cards, visiting the cottage, gardening, and going to all the local – and not so local – events. The Potato Fest, Beeton Meet Your Neighbour Picnic, Honey & Garden Fest and Elvis Fest will never be the same without her. She enriched the lives of so many and we are in awe of the incredible impact she had on others. Mom would have been very touched by all the amazing expressions of love and admiration. We want to take this opportunity to offer our sincere thanks to the amazing nurses in the ICU at RVH – especially Riley and Crystal, and all the staff who looked after mom with dignity and respect. Not to mention the wonderful support they gave us as we kept mom company in her final days. We also want to thank the many people who offered support of food, drink and spiritual support which helped us get thru this very emotional time. Diane’s family wish to acknowledge, with our deepest appreciation, the abundant expressions of love, support, comforting messages and the many acts of kindness shown during this difficult time. If so desired please make donations to: Royal Victoria Hospital or the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Diane’s memorial service will be held at The Nottawasaga Inn in the Crystal Ballroom on Thursday, December 15. A memorial talk will be given at 1pm, with a visitation to follow from 2-5pm.
Kathy Millette says
My condolences to Diane’s family. What a great loving friend she was. We met at a trade show, that we attended. Then later helped her when possible with what ever business stuff she needed done. I miss her so much, what a wonderful friend.
Rose Price says
So sorry for your loss. I have known Dianne for many years. She will be missed by many.
James and Pat Archer says
Pat and I extend our heartfelt sorrow for all the family at this time, and mourn with you.
Diane deeply loved her loving family more anything else. But no matter who you where, Diane loved people and loved to help anyone she could. A humorous and generous soul, filled with a deep love of life. One of Diane’s greatest desire’s she expressed to us was, that all would see a day when all the earth would live together in peace with no more pain and suffering. Pat and I share those thoughts and express our love to Bob and family. See you soon dear friend.
Jane Beljo says
My deepest sympathy to Bobbie and families. ‘Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.’ Matthew 5:4
Kathy Mceachern says
My deepest sympathy to JoAnne, LuAnne, RoseAnne, BobbieAnne, Alan and families. Diane was an amazing woman and will be sadly missed by her cousins Karen, Barbara and Kathy. We are so greatful to have spent a joyous Elvis fest with Diane this summer filled with lots of laughs and tears. To a wonderful Lady, remembered always.
Gladys Fieldhouse says
My condolences to the family at this difficult time.
Joanne you don’t know me but Colin was our neighbour so he can fill you in on the Huntington Rd connection. Glad to read where your mom has left beautiful memories for the grandchildren and great grand children. They can be so precious to us grandparents.
June Grandy says
I am sad to hear of Diane’s passing see was my hair dresser from the time she started her shop in Beeton we had good time back in the day she will be missed by all thoughts and prayer to all her family RIP my friend
Shirley Ross says
So very sorry to hear of Diane’s passing. My sincere condolences to the entire family. Diane, a beautiful lady both inside and out., cherish your memories, you will forever be surrounded by her love.
REST IN PEACE DIANE
Marj Daniels says
Dear Luanne and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss, may you feel God’s loving arms surrounding you with his peace today and in the days to come.
Susie Robinson says
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing.She was a wonderful lady. She was my family favorite hairdresser in Beeton.R.I.P. Diane.
Ann Mitchell says
I am so sorry to read about Dianne’s passing. My condolences to all the family-
may God Bless and keep you in His care.
With Love,
Judith Burkitt says
So sorry to hear about Diane. Best wishes to LuAnne and JoAnne, especially at this time of the year. She was much too young.
Peggy Ann Field says
I am so sad to learn of Diane`s passing, she was my first boss & friend in Canada, she was a very special person to many people.my condolences to her family hugs Peggy Ann
Steve & Laurie Bridge says
We are truly sorry for this great loss. Diane was a bright & shining star to our whole community & especially to her family & close friends. She will be missed. God Speed Diane.
Steve & Laurie Bridge
The Bridge Funeral Home, Angus