Marion Theresa Wheelton
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother Marion Theresa Wheelton (O’Reilly). Marion passed away peacefully at the age of 86 at Copper Ridge Place.
Marion was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, John M. Wheelton (1925-2013). Marion will be forever remembered by her four children, Hester Wheelton (Greg), Wanda Robbins, Philip Wheelton, and Sandra Duncan (Gordon). Marion cherished her eight grandchildren: Emily & Julia Robbins; Courtney, Sophia, P.J., and Benny Wheelton; and Olivia & Nylan Duncan.
Marion was born in Copper Cliff, Ontario, the daughter of John, a miner, and Mary-Ellen O’Reilly. Marion was the second youngest of seven children and was raised by her oldest sister when her mother passed away.
Marion and John were married and moved to the Yukon in 1952 in search of gold. Immediately settling in Whitehorse; developing many long-time friendships. From 1961 until 1967 they lived in Elsa, Yukon. Whitehorse was their home for the remainder of their lives.
Marion had a passion for family and children. The focus of her life was caring for her and other peoples’ children. Marion was a Catholic who believed that love of family, directness and honesty could carry you through all the challenges and struggles of life. Marion was a kind and generous woman, determined, loving and fiercely protective of her family. Marion loved sports and was fully devoted to her children’s athletic endeavours. Later in her life she immensely enjoyed Whitehorse’s artistic and culture events.
“There was a lady named Marion, with a smile as bright as Orion.
She’s taller then a tower and pretty as a flower; and, as fierce as a lion”.
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Thank you to Dr. Avery for the many years of kind and compassionate care provided to Marion. Thank you to the staff of Copper Ridge Place whose warmth, friendliness and kindness was a source of comfort to Marion over the past 6 years. Special thanks to the volunteers that helped Marion to attend weekly mass at Copper Ridge Place.
A private family celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2019.
Rebecca Bastien
Mrs. Wheelton was my first exposure to childcare. I don’t remember how long I had attended her services, but I can remember that they were fun times where I was introduced to the Monkees TV show, reading quietly because I was that kid that never napped and my evil nemesis, powdered milk. I only have fond memories and know that I loved going there to the big brown house next to the tall clay cliff. I’m sad that it took me this long in my adult life to consciously look her up and I am heartbroken that it was 7 months too late to tell her “thank you”. Please give my best to her family, they are welcome to say hello to me on Facebook. Rebecca Bastien in Anchorage, AK,