In 1997, Marnie’s mother passed away and as a consequence she was invited to take some hospitality in Winnipeg. She stayed in one of the turret rooms of the Fort Garry Hotel and got a good rest. Pictured is Marnie in her cozy little room, the same year she bought her little house in Oak Bay.
She actually bought the cottage while she was in New York City while visiting with her daughter, Sarah. Sarah has lived and worked in England for these past 20 years. Due to Marnie’s premature passing, Sarah has a major task of dealing with her property – whether to sell or to use it for retirement purposes. Sarah has done a masterful job at dealing with the property.
(See "Bride of Sorrows: Marnie Butler Recalled" under the 'Obituaries' tab).
Maureen Rae (Marnie) Butler (née Berger) died October 10, 2023, Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria B.C. Born May 19, 1950 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Victoria, B.C. Marnie was predeceased by her parents Willard (Bill) Albert Clarence Berger and Florence (Lil) Lillian (née Perry). Mother of Sarah (Ben Bartram) and life partner of Patrick Jamieson.
Marnie was a graduate of Oak Bay High School and Simon Fraser University. A unique individual, trained as an arts administrator, Marnie served for 12 years as the editor of Island Catholic News (1993-2005), the progressive Catholic monthly, until ill health intervened. Afflicted with osteoporosis, Marnie spent her last 15 years very reflectively including becoming a member of Congregation Emanu-El synagogue.
Many thanks to the all the nurses and doctors at the Jubilee 4th Floor South and Hospice for their wonderful compassion and care.
Marnie was interred at Hatley Memorial Gardens on October 14th, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held in April 2024. To honour her life, donations may be made to Island Catholic News.
