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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
GREER, Mary-Louise (née FREEBORN) - A long-time resident of Mississauga (Clarkson/Lorne Park), Mary-Louise died peacefully at her home in Barrie. She was born and raised in Hamilton, ON. During WWII, she joined the Canadian Navy (WRCNS/ Wrens) and was stationed in hospitals in Halifax and St. John's. In 1949, she graduated from St. Joseph's Hospital in Hamilton as a Registered Nurse. She married Harold Bennett Greer on September 5, 1949. Together, they lived in Ottawa – where they had three daughters, Kerry Elaine, Linda Kathleen and Patricia Louise – and Washington D.C., before moving to Clarkson in 1959. Predeceased by her parents, Henry and Rose (Burrows) Freeborn; brothers, Jim (Helen) and Bob (Betty); husband, Harold (2012); daughters, Kerry Van Bolderen (2008) and Linda (2012); and grandson, Graham Van Bolderen (2005). Survived by brother, Jack (Helen); daughter, Tricia (Wes Mound); son-in-law, Gary van Bolderen (Sharyn Holloway); grandchildren, Trish (Michael), Deb (Stacy) and Greg van Bolderen (Jeni), and Meagan and Kevin Mound (Lindsay); great-grandchildren, Henri, Fréderik, Élise, Sébastien and Lasairfhíona. Mary-Louise was tight with a dollar but generous with her help and support; a loving GG to her grandkids and great- grandkids. Thrift stores were a joy. Notably resilient, she drove herself home after breaking her kneecap and never had anesthetic at the dentist. At the cottage, she would swim on the Victoria Day and Thanksgiving weekends, regardless of the weather. She was our family doctor and source of medical knowledge. She was proud of her Irish heritage and so pleased to reconnect with relatives in Ireland. She loved a good 'discussion' and had strong opinions on many things, particularly, better recognition of women's roles in society. Admired for being feisty in her later years, Mary- Louise retained her sharp mind, wry humour and love of word puzzles all her life. She was grateful for family and friends who visited, called or sent letters and emails, particularly in recent years. Special thanks to Heleina and staff at A Caring Heart Home Support Services (Barrie) for their exceptional care over the last several months of Mary-Louise's life. May the sun shine warm upon your face. (The Globe and Mali 15 Apr 2023)
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