Martha Ulinder
ULINDER, Martha G.
January 19, 1929 - June 17, 2013
On June 17, Martha passed away peacefully with her daughters by her side after her courageous battle with ALS. A loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, she is survived by daughters, Twyla (Lance) Gardiner of Drayton Valley, AB and Joyce (David) Vos of Keg River, AB, grandchildren, Kristina, Kenton (Jody), Brett (Jaclyn) Gardiner, Austin and Erin Vos and great-grandchildren, Grace Millie, Reno David, Grady Lucas and Hadley Megan, one brother Boyd (Julie) McLure of Swan River, MB and a number of cousins, nieces and nephews. Martha was predeceased by her husband, David, in 2005 and her sister, Janet Benoit in 1974. Martha, the youngest daughter of Scottish immigrants, Tom and Mary McLure, was born in St. Boniface, MB and raised in the McKinley district near Birch River, MB. In 1951, she married David Ulinder of Lenswood, MB where they farmed until 1958, when they moved to Midnapore, AB. In 1965, the family moved to the Acadia district of Calgary which was to be her home for 43 years until she moved to her condo in Parkland. Throughout Martha's life, family was always her priority and she especially loved being a part of the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also so enjoyed the many other families that she was a part of over the years - especially those at McDougall United Church, her sisters in the Order of the Eastern Star, her volunteer team at Rockyview Hospital, her Co-op girls and her special swimming friends at Canyon Meadows pool. After 27 years with the Calgary Co-op No. 3 bakery, Martha retired and she and David were able to enjoy many trips to various destinations around the world. After David's passing, she continued to enjoy travelling with family and friends. Martha was an avid gardener and loved flowers. She was a great cook, an outstanding baker and everyone loved her famous cinnamon buns. But most of all, Martha was known by all as a kind and caring individual who was always there to support family and friends. Her countless volunteer hours, generous spirit and love of laughter and adventure will be remembered by all. In August, 2011 Martha was diagnosed with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - Lou Gehrig's disease) and she was again embraced by a new family. The ALS Society of Alberta (Calgary) was with her and her family from the first days of diagnosis to the last days of her life here on earth. Martha's family cannot begin to express their heartfelt gratitude to her ALS family and the staff of Agape Hospice for the unending support and care that they have given. The family also wishes to thank everyone who came to visit, called, sent cards and emails and kept Martha's home in flowers for the past year. You are all special friends. In lieu of flowers, please send your donations to the ALS Society of Alberta, Suite 250, 4723 - 1 Street S.W., Calgary, AB T2G 4Y8. Memorial Service will be held at McDougall United Church (8516 Athabasca Street S.E., Calgary, AB) on Tuesday, June 25.
