Obituary of MaryLee Ellen BENNER

MaryLee Benner beloved wife of Edwin Benner of Calgary, passed away, suddenly, peacefully at home on Friday, November 17, 2017 at the age of 60 years.

MaryLee was born in Calgary which she called home for all of her years. It was where her family was.  In her youth as a Member of the Navy League Wrennette Corps of Canada she earned several sharpshooter badges and also sang in the chorus of the Southern Alberta Opera Company’s production of Carmen.  She was an extraordinary and regal woman of many talents who quickly mastered all she undertook from singing, guitar, lace making, glass blowing, jewellery making and many other crafts and endeavours. She was a wonderful wife, daughter, mother and friend to the downtrodden and fortunate alike.  She took crafting to a high art form, winning blue ribbons at the Calgary Stampede for her efforts. She advocated for special needs children, fighting for better programs and resources.  She continued this passion as the Director of a Daycare for many years.  She then made a bold career shift into entrepreneurship where she successfully worked until her retirement.

MaryLee is survived by her loving husband Ted Benner; daughters Kelsey Benner, Chandra Benner (Michael Holland); son Jorma Benner; granddaughters, Aisling and Lia; mother Betty Harley; as well as many loved relatives, in-laws and friends across Canada and beyond.

She was predeceased by her father Donald Harley.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to Diabetes Canada, 220, 6223 – 2nd Street S.E., Calgary, AB T2H 1J5 Telephone: (403) 266-0620, ext. 1112, www.diabetes.ca.