It is incredibly hard to sum up the influence a mother has on those around her. We are honouring our loving, affectionate, amazing Mom who was also known as “Mom” to many.
Belle was born Isabella Ann Wilkin on February 20, 1927, in the small town of Corebridge, England. At the age of two, her family immigrated to Canada for a better life, to live on a farm in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. Life was very tough on the farm for a family of nine children, so they left everything behind and moved to Port Arthur. At the age of thirteen Mom got a job at Martha’s Bakery and rode her bike every day back and forth to work from Port Arthur to Fort William. It was a few years later when she would have a chance meeting with our dad, Steve at the McIntyre River. The rest is history! They were married and while Dad was travelling with professional hockey, Mom held down the fort. She worked many jobs but became her own boss opening Belle’s Variety Store on Oliver Road. Many great friends and memories were made for both our family and those who came into the store to chat and look over the fabulous candy window! Mom moved on to operating Superior Motel and then opened her own kitchen store, Debbie C. Cooking Capers. But the family always found time to relax at Beck Siding fishing, hunting and picking blueberries and mushrooms. When Mom finally retired, she and Dad built their dream home at Bay’s End on Lake Superior. She spent many happy hours wood carving, doing puzzles, splitting wood, taking care of her numerous dogs and cats and enjoying her life.
She never realized how important it was to be a Gramma until she had her four grandchildren. Nine great grandchildren followed and at 97 she was still going to the rinks and various venues to watch the kids' sporting events. Their fondest memories of great gramma were making sugar cookies, cinnamon buns, blueberry pies, perogies, cabbage rolls, and her turkey stuffing.
Belle was predeceased by her husband Steve, her son Stephen, daughter-in-law Anna Marie and son-in-law Phil. She is survived by her daughters Cathy Poling, Debbie Bennett (Bill), grandchildren Philip (Amanda), Kristofer (Stephanie), Gregory and Stefanie. Great grandchildren Bailey, Parker, Coen, Eli, Olivia, Noah, Jailin, Mylee and Haiden as well as many special nieces and nephews.
Special thanks to everyone who helped us on Mom’s journey, especially Dr. Kennedy.
As per Belle’s wishes there will be no service. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
