Obituary of Margaret Rainbird
Passed away peacefully in her sleep with family by her side 8 days short of her 103rd birthday celebration, at her retirement residence at Chartwell Stillwater Creek.
Margaret (Petie as she was fondly known) was predeceased by her first husband James Bailie in 1954. In 1965 Marg met and married a tall handsome New Zealander, Wiliam Rainbird, while working at the National Research Council. Marg and Bill had both tragically lost their spouse and each had children from these earlier marriages ..... Marg with 3 teenagers and Bill with 2 younger children. And so, this match made in heaven thrived and over the next 40 years life was good for this blended family. Bill, Marg's husband and best friend for 40 wonderful years passed away in 2005. Marg has continued to devote herself to her family and the many friends she has kept in touch with over the years. Marg is also predeceased by her parents Raoul and Lillian Lafleur, brother William Lafleur (Emma) and sister Allyn Lafleur (Bill Saunders). Also predeceased by her loving grandson, Kevin Michael Barke in 2017.
She was a devoted mother to her children, Allan Bailie (Michele Bourque), Ann Anstey (Jack Seguin), Peter Bailie (Lorna), and a beloved step mom to Robert Rainbird and Helen Rainbird (Paul Bates).
Marg was lovingly known as Grandma Rainbird by Kim Bailie (Sylvain Major), Anick Bailie (Duc Lam), Cara Lahey (John), Mathew Bailie (Alicia), Luke Rainbird and Daniel Rainbird. Grandma Rainbird was also blessed to have eleven great grandchildren and 4 great-great grandchildren.
Marg thrived for over 10 years at her retirement residence at Chartwell Stillwater Creek in Bells Corners, Ottawa. The love, compassion and care she received was of the highest standard. Aspecial thank you to Lillian, Karen, Jenn, Guy and many others who assisted with her care.
We say goodbye to an unselfish, loving, compassionate lady who had a life well lived but not without hardship, and who always thought of others. You will never be forgotten.
A private gathering and burial has been held by the family.