Gwen Arlene Lyons

It is with sadness that the family announces Gwen Arlene Lyons’s (nee Bell) sudden passing peacefully in her home on January 15th, 2015 at the age of 65 years. 

Born in Arcola, Saskatchewan on September 6th, 1949 Gwen was raised on the family farm near Renwer, moving with the family to Minitonas in her high school years. Gwen met and married Ron Lyons in 1968 and moved to Kenville where they had their first child Joseph. Ron’s work took the young family to Dauphin, Winnipeg, Kenora Ontario and back to Winnipeg, where their second child Christine was born in 1971. Soon after the family moved to Stony Mountain, building a home and a farm on 40 acres – the lifestyle Gwen had been waiting for. First on her list of farm animals were horses. Over the years Gwen had many pets on her farm, even caring for wild animals like racoons, wild ducks and Canada geese at times, but always she had her horses. The children were in 4H and both Gwen and the children rode in local parades and competed in local rodeos. Gwen and Ron separated in 1978 and she began her life as a single parent.

Gwen began working at Bristol Aerospace in the mid 1970’s and worked there until she suffered a brain aneurysm at age 33. A strong and determined woman, she persevered, but faced a lifetime of challenges. Gwen returned to the Parkland in 1997, moving to a farm near Swan River to be closer to her mother, brothers and sisters, where she remained for the rest of her life. A peaceful property, beautifully situated along the banks of the Swan River, Gwen spent endless hours tending to her flower gardens and farmyard pets. Wonderful memories were created when her young grandchildren, nieces and nephews visited. During this time she also dedicated many years to helping her mother through her medical challenges.

Over the years Gwen had long term personal relationships that were very special to her and her children. As well, Gwen could often be seen around town visiting with friends at all the coffee spots. The companionship they offered was very important to her.

She will be profoundly missed by all her family, her pets and her many friends.

Gwen is survived by: her son Joseph Lyons and daughter Christine Rawluk (Christopher); a brother, Jerry Bell (Lucille); sisters, Trudy Bell-Tulman (Sam), Valerie Marlow (Greg) and Cindy Sparkman (Keith); and sister-in-law, Julie Bell; grandchildren Tiffany, Samantha, Adelle and Matthew and a great-grandson, Lucas.

She was predeceased by: her parents Bert and Mary Bell and her brother Ron Bell.

A funeral service was held for Gwen on Saturday, January 24th, 2015 at 2:00 PM from the Chapel of Paull Funeral Home with reverend Kathy Highmoor officiating. Linda Gilchrist participated as the organist. Following the funeral service Gwen was laid to rest in the Minitonas Cemetery. Following the graveside service a fellowship luncheon took place at the Minitonas Community Hall. Should friends so desire, memorial donations in Gwen’s honour may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association.

Pallbearers were: Cheryl Bell, Phil Wright, Ryan Bell, Measha Marlow, Rilena Marlow and Riley Sparkman.

Paull Funeral Home and Crematorium are honoured to have served the Lyons family.