Ethel Mae (Wynn) Covan – 95, Truro. With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our dear Mom on Thursday, July 28, 2022, in Truro, Nova Scotia. Mom was born in Fort Fitzgerald, a small settlement on the banks of the Slave River, bordering on the province of Alberta and the Northwest Territories. She was the daughter of the late Richard Henry and Helen Bertha (Fredrich) Wynn.
Her Dad was a lumberman and pioneer, who established a lumber mill in Fort Fitzgerald. Mom loved the "North country" and always referred to herself as a Northern girl. She had many fond memories of growing up in the "North country" - travelling by dog team in the winter; horse and wagon during the non-winter months; the occasional trip on a seasonal paddle wheel boat and bush planes. When it was time for her to go to school, she, along with her sister and mother, moved to Vancouver; however, her love of the North country would always be a part of who she was throughout her life.
Mom truly believed that the simple things in life would give you the most joy - a beautiful blue sky with puffy white clouds. She had the kindest heart and always lived her life to make life better for others. Her journey wasn’t always easy, however, she was always guided by her beloved Dad’s strong work ethic and words of wisdom, "always go the last mile" and, "whatever you do, do with all your might, for things done in halves are never done right." These words have made a profound and everlasting impression on us, as well.
Following her early years as a busy wife and mother, nothing gave her more pleasure than to wander along the majestic Beaver Valley escarpment, in Southern Ontario, with our Dad and their trusty companion, Lady. She loved collecting grape vines and wild flowers from the fields and making them into beautiful wreaths and flower arrangements. As well, she loved picking fresh fruit and vegetables and turning them into delicious jams and preserves. She was truly a devoted homemaker who loved sewing, and making beautiful quilts and cozy sweaters for her family. She and our Dad were always very active and loved spending time outdoors - riding their bicycles, going for long walks, and downhill skiing - well into their late eighties.
Mom always had a profound faith and an appreciation of the beautiful world in which she lived. She loved attending Sunday school and singing in her church choirs. Throughout her life, her faith and commitment to her church were always an integral part of who she was.
Mom leaves behind her loving children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Along with her parents, she was predeceased by our Dad, John, and her older sister, Florence. As much as we will miss her, it comforts us to know that she and Dad are together again.
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our Cedarstone family for all their love and support. As well, we would like to thank Bruce Varner for his guidance and kind support during this difficult time.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mattatall-Varner Funeral Home, 55 Young Street, Truro. There will be no service. Private messages of condolence may be sent to the family by viewing Ethel’s obituary on-line and selecting "Send A Condolence" at: www.mattatallvarnerfh.com