LINDA ATKINSON

(née Lebel)

July 7, 1949 - March 5, 2016

 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our mother, wife, sister, grandmother and daughter Linda Atkinson, at the age of 66 on March 5, 2016.

 

Linda is survived and missed by her mother (Maureen Lebel); husband Dennis; son Christopher (Michael); daughter Jennifer (Paul); grandson Henry; siblings Joanne (Glen), Paul (Pamela), Mavis (Barry) and Michael (Laurie) and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was predeceased by her father Leo Lebel and sister Nancy Minarz.

 

Linda was born on July 7, 1949 in Winnipeg. She loved spending time on Lake Winnipeg, starting as a child at Husavik and later at Gimli and Camp Morton. Her family was the centre of her life, and especially so since her beloved grandson Henry (who called her “Dimmy”) was born in 2007. Pets were always a part of the family, especially her dog Cassie and cat "My Molly".

 

Linda loved sweets and flowers, and anything pretty and pink. She also loved the Rolling Stones, and a good horror flick and had a wicked wit that kept family and friends laughing in good times and bad.

 

A talented and creative baker, Linda drew repeat customers (and praise) with her baking at Harmon’s Drugstore and Oscar’s Deli, but she had always dreamed of running her own bakery. She realized that dream eight years ago, when her son Christopher (who called her “Gurr”) proposed the idea of a family business featuring her baking. Joined by her daughter Jennifer and husband Dennis, they opened Lilac Bakery in 2008, to great success and rave reviews. The bakery was the creation of Linda and Chris, and its mission statement (“Sweet classic baking that your grandmother and mother used to make”) will always describe her crucial role in its success.

 

As per Linda’s wishes, cremation has taken place. In early August 2016, her ashes will be scattered on Lake Winnipeg, followed by a gathering of family and friends.

 

In lieu of flowers, tributes can be made in Linda’s name to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB, R3T OR3 or D’Arcy’s Animal Rescue Centre, 730B Century Street, Winnipeg MB, R3H 0M1.

 

“We were so lucky to have you in our lives Mom. We’ll ensure that Lilac Bakery stands strongly as your legacy.”