Mary McCallum, born May 18, 1928, passed away peacefully Monday, May 8, 2017 at the age of 88 years at the Fillmore Health Centre. She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Ann Norton; husband Neil McCallum; son-in-law, Taylor Prouse; five brothers and several in-laws. Until 1919, Ann and Harry Norton had been blessed with five sons in six years. While farming on the north shore of Gooseberry Lake, they may have thought their family complete. That all changed May 18, 1928 with the arrival of Mary Amy Williamina Norton. Mary and her mother walked to services in local schoolhouses with visiting ministers. On one occasion she was walking alone to Sequin School when a certain Baptist Minister from Weyburn offered her a ride. This shy little girl who spoke to few, never mind a stranger, flatly refused. This kind preacher may have been puzzled by the display of steadfast determination, but it comes as no surprise to those who knew her. It should be noted that the kindly stranger was at the time running for Parliament. His name: Tommy Douglas. Harry Norton died when Mary was four. As the depression and drought worsened, the older brothers left the farm and Mary and her mother moved to Creelman directly across from St. Andrew’s United Church. At the age of 9 she began ringing the bell and has been a faithful supporter of the local and larger church ever since. As 4 of her brothers enlisted to serve in WWII, Mary awaited the treasured cards and letters she received from them. She kept detailed scrapbooks of war events. Following grade 9 Mary went to work at Cairn’s General Store. It was here that she had her first experience with being swept off her feet by a charming farmer. Mary and Neil McCallum’s wedding dance was the first event in Creelman’s new rink on June 25, 1948. They successfully farmed the dry parts of an often flood-prone farm. Farming and raising 4 “blessings” would have been more than enough for many, but it must be true that if you want things done, you call the busiest person. Mary became a founding member of Fillmore Rebekah Lodge in 1954, serving locally and beyond for 60 years. Also in 1954, Mary and Neil began another lifetime commitment with their role in nurturing the rebirth of the Creelman Agricultural Society. This was followed by the initiation of the “Biggest Little Fair” in 1958. Involved in many parts of the fair, the parade was a highlight. As recently as two weeks ago Mary was looking forward to riding in the parade on July 15. Mary was also a stronger supporter of 4-H and always helped her children out with their projects and record books. She also went on to lead a sewing group. Farm life ended in 1976 when increased flooding resulted in Mary moving out in a boat and life in town meant adding even more activities. A new craft was added at the “Mud Shack”. Many of her family still enjoy the ceramic results. On Mother’s Day in 1980, part of the old rink blew through mom’s front window! The rink’s speedy replacement (a testament to Creelman’s unmatched resilience) allowed a space for a drop-in centre and Mary went on to become a strong supporter of Club 55, as well as its resident photographer for all events. Mary not only made her share of local history she helped write it down in both editions of “Prairie Memories.” In 1998 Mary was once again courted and swept off her feet by yet another charming farmer. Mary and Len were able to enjoy many years of travel, family gatherings, gardening and yes, mom in her sewing room again. For several years Mary and Len told the family in no uncertain terms that neither of them were about to change address without the other. This promise was kept in September, 2014 when both moved to Fillmore Health Centre. Since then Mary has continued to knit, enjoy visits from family and friends or sit quietly holding hands with Len. Mary’s family thank God for granting her the strength to thrive in the face of challenges that would have overwhelmed most. They also thank her caregivers for doing their best for her, especially this past winter. They will be forever grateful to their mother for sharing a long and well-lived life with all of them. Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children, Douglas McCallum; Donald (Janice) McCallum; Joanne Prouse and Robert (Karen) McCallum; 11 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren; husband, Len Davis; Len’s sons, Tom (Pat) Davis and Robert (Lynne) Davis and their families as well as many friends. A Service of Remembrance was held Monday, May 15, at 2:00 p.m. from St. Andrew’s United Church, Creelman, with Pastor Allan Gairns officiating. Viola Carnegie was the organist. Urn Bearers were Aleesha Arcand and Brett Hammond. The service included a tribute given by Fern Rebekah Lodge #33, Kisbey. Interment followed at Golden Gates Cemetery, Creelman. Donations in memory of Mary may be made to the St. Andrew’s United Church, Box 96, Creelman, Saskatchewan S0G 0X0. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn, 306-842-5432.
