Obituary of Marion Elizabeth Grafton

Marion Grafton (nee Woodley) of Calgary, AB, passed away on Thursday, September 2, 2021, at the age 100 years.

Marion Elizabeth Woodley born September 26, 1920, at the Holy Cross Hospital in Calgary, to Roland Samuel and Hilda Mary Woodley. Third child, two older brothers, Gordon and Donald, younger sister Joyce and brother Dick.  Lived in the Barclay area. Went to private kindergarten at five years of age. Balmoral School at six to Grade 9 then Crescent Heights to Grade 12, where she met her intended. C.G.I.T. for six years at Crescent Heights United Church. Then to Henderson’s Business College for a secretarial course (six months), then in training for Nursing at Holy Cross Hospital (1939 – 1943). After completion of three years, worked as staff nurse at Baker Sanatorium (summer relief) and for Junior Red Cross Hospital. Married Thomas Henry Grafton on September 4, 1943, in Dauphin, Manitoba. Spent six weeks there (no work), then to High River where Tom was stationed as a flying instructor with the RCAF until 1945. Back to Calgary and “1431 2 St NW”. First child, Barbara Jane born on December 13, 1945, Deborah Jill born on January 19, 1948, Thomas James born April 26, 1949. Worked in nursery at Crescent Heights United Church then went back as C.G.I.T. leader at the Church for two years. Joined Bridge Club. Richard Jon born on April 22, 1956, William Jeffery born on September 21, 1959. Superintendent of C.G.I.T for five years. Resigned and joined U.C.W. Childhood summers spent at relatives and friends at Stavely, Wetaskiwin, Brooks, Cowley, Willow Point (Macleod), Sylvan Lake, and Penticton.

Marion is survived by her her five children Jane (Harvey), Jill, Jim, Jon (Margot) and Jeff (Amber) and her many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren.

Marion was predeceased by her husband Tom in 2004.

A Celebration of Life will be held at CALGARY CREMATORIUM CHAPEL, 3219 – 4^th Street NW, (within the valley of Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Saturday, September 25, 2021, at 11:00 a.m.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, 15 Colonel Baker Place N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 4Z3 Telephone: (403) 261-7219 or a Charity of your choice.

Marion's memorial card can be viewed using this link