McLaughlin: Wilma Catherine
It is with a heavy heart that we wish to let our friends and extended family know about the passing of the fabulous Wilma Catherine Sturgeon McLaughlin.
We could go on about how she was a wife to Carl, mum to Kelly, Kim & Jeff, and granny to Roman, Sydney, Austeja & Vyte, but that all seems very formal for a woman who was anything but.
Wilma lived life on her terms. She was the kind of woman who, at the age of 21, tossed a coin between immigrating from Scotland to Switzerland or Canada. Canada got lucky, and it has never been the same.
She who spoke her mind on no uncertain terms, and while it was harrowing to be on her bad side, those on her good side could rely on her unshakable loyalty, discretion and hospitality. It’s no wonder that Wilma had many friends. She was the belle of the ball and could sing and entertain a crowd at the drop of a dime. Anyone who spent more than five minutes with her knew she was funny. I’m talking tears-running-down-cheeks-can’t-breath-because-you’re-laughing-too-hard funny. Life of the party, breaking out the bagpipe music and swinging the broomstick like a drum major’s mace. She was quick with a drink, a story and always had an extra bed for visitors from both Scotland and New Brunswick.
She was fierce. Terribly fierce. She fought death tooth and nail, like Boudicca against the Romans, and like that ancient warrior queen, it was her ferocity that led to her downfall. So determined was she to ignore any sign of weakness, that she ruled out that which could have helped her.
But even as we grieve, we also must concede that our Wilma died exactly as she lived: On her own terms. There were no hospitals, no doctors, no IVs. She died peacefully at home, tended by her husband, a few hours after seeing her eldest daughter and grandkids.
We doubt that Wilma could have anticipated the gap she’d leave at her passing. It’s like when the music stops and the life of the party suddenly departs. We can’t help but feel disappointed and a tad bewildered, as we drag ourselves home, a little worse for the wear, yet secure in our belief that it was a damn good time. But not for our Wilma, of course. For her, the party is not over; it has simply followed her to a new location.
Wilma will be missed on so many levels, and by so many people. For us, her family, we are simply grateful for the time we were given, and we assure every one of you: It was an adventure.
A Memorial Service will be held at Rod Abrams Funeral Home 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477 on Saturday January 7, 2017 with visitation from 10am until the time of service in the chapel at 11am. Reception to follow at Tottenham United Church Parish Hall.
Jacqueline Frew says
Many fond and cherished memories, what a wonderful lady indeed.
Tina Alexander says
My sincere condolences to Carl, Kelly, Kim and families. Wilma was a wonderful person. A beautiful ray of sunshine full of life. Sadly missed.
geri a lynch says
This is very late. We were in Florida when Wilma passed on but I have been thinking about her lately. She was so much fun and loved seeing her around town and at Stedman’s. She has a wonderful family . Our sincere condolences. Think of her often.
jean steven says
What can I say about Wilma that hasn,t already been say, except that we met when as a shy 15yr old started work beside her, and she took me under her wing being only a few years older than me, we hit it of right away, and had some good times together, she was so easy to get on with, and great company, rest in pease, Wilma, see you on the other side
Sandra McCubbin says
I have lovely memories from long ago of Wilma at our nana and papas house in Stevenston,She was my stunningly beautiful big cousin who gave me a jewellery box before leaving to go to Canada, lovely lady with a big heart,God bless xx
Jeannette & Jim Ferrie says
Carl, Kelly, Kim & Families, We were so sorry to hear the sad news about Wilma. Wilma sure was a character & always had a joke to tell you. I am happy that our families were still in touch with one another. RIP Wilma & party on. XOXO
Charlene MacDonald says
Carl,my condolenses to you and you family at this difficult time. My thoughts are with you.
Charlene(June’s friend)
Charliene Metherall says
So many memories of Wilma. She was my snowy owl in our Brownie Pack. Memories of planning meetings, doing crafts, and so much laughter. I remember one Halloween when she came dressed as The Midnight Cowboy, sporting p.j.’s and a cowboy hat. She sure could make me laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Velma Wace says
Our sympathy to Carl, Kelly and Kim and their families. Lots of memories of working with Wilma at Stedmans and our children’s friendships in Tottenham. RIP Wilma.
Joy McLaughlin says
Having known Wilma as a family member for most of my life I can say with certainty she did all things on her own terms; she was a character who could be counted on to liven up the party and she will be missed by all her immediate and extended family and friends.
Lillian Carson says
Sad to hear of the passing of my dear friend Wilma. So generous of her time on my visits to Canada, I will miss her friendship and wit. Your loving friend Lillian. X
Sandra Hall says
My big sister got aunt wilma as her fairy godmother. I just like to think of her as our second mother ❤❤
Andrea Cunningham says
I knew Wilma in our days as young lassies in Scotland. A few months before her passing, she reconnected with me on Facebook. It was nice to chat. I was saddened to learn of her passing. My deepest sympathies to her family.
Joan Hammond Pratt says
I have so funny memories of your mom from Steadmans all ways somuch fun all ways made me laugh ,so sad for your family she will be very much missed,but I am sure you have nothing but wonderful memories RIP Joan Hammond. pratt
Bob Eagan says
To Carl, Kelly, Kim amd family. So many years since we have crossed paths. So sorry to hear of mums passing. She was a force to be reckoned with indeed! Many fond moments remembered.
Linda Field nee Sturgeon says
Wilma Sturgeon my big Cousin,what can I say …..she would be so proud of her family for the lovely tribute you have given her,she was such a wonderful person with a heart of gold and will be sorely missed by everyone ,your memory will live on in our hearts Wilma
Anne Stephen nee Bradford says
Our friendship began in 1948 when we both started primary school,we were five years old then.That friendship lasted all of our lives.She was special l
am proud to have been her friend.l will miss you Wilma.
” My wee pal “
Joan Devlin,,,nee Sturgeon, says
i got a phone call some years back,,a scottish voice said,,Hi im Wilma from Canada,and i think we are cousins…Well the rest is history,,,,Thank you our dear Wilma for finding us,its been great knowing you,,xxx.
Natalie Copp says
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Wilma. I have known Wilma a long time Brownies, Stedmans she was a special lady. My condolences to the family and my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Norma cochrane says
I always thought I was special as I had my aunt wilma McLaughlin as my fairy godmother how lucky was I. She was a very special lady and will be sadly missed by all. I’m sure she is planning a big party with her sisters and catching up on lost times. Gone but never forgotten xxx
Marjorie. and Jerry says
Dear Carl and family, we were so shocked to hear of Wilma’s passing our thoughts and prayers are with you all. RIP✝
Sarah Cole says
So sadden to hear of Wilma’s death. I remember her from the mall in Tottenham and she also worked with our Aunt Alma for many years at Rothman’s. She was a joy and you were so lucky to have her as a wife, mother and grandma. My sympathy to all the family.
mervandannamcdowell says
KARLAND GIRLS WE HAVE A LOT OF GREAT MEMORIES WIYH ALL OF YOU OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU ALL AT THIS TIME
Peggy and Don Bower says
We new Wilma and she was a joy to be with. She always new how to make people laugh. She will be missed. Our condolences to the family .
Marion &Ed. Lewis says
What more can be said,your tribute is perfect. That was Wilma.. Our sincere sympathy to all.N
Bonnie and Ken Pratt says
I remember Wilma well from our days in Tottenham. She was a hoot in the Stedman’s store and always had a witty jab or saying to keep the moment light. if I recall she liked the lotto tickets that had repetitive numbers on them. I am sure she will be missed dearly. Sorry for your loss