Suddenly as a result of a motor vehicle collision on Tuesday, February 19, 2008, Mary Avis Ann (Simmons)Walker-Thiel of R.R. 3, Zurich in her 54th year. Loved daughter of Gordon and Georgina Simmons and daughter-in-law of Stewart and the late Alice Thiel. Beloved wife of Hubert Thiel and the late Richard Walker (1989). Dear mother of Jennette Walker of Zurich, Sarah Walker of London, Michael and Meaghan Thiel of Orono, Janet and Damion Willert of R.R. 3 Zurich, Matthew Thiel and Katherine Thiel at home. Loving grandmother of Ashton, Olivia and Ethan Willert. Dear sister and sister-in-law of Gordon Simmons, Michael and Heather Simmons, Patrick and Cathy Simmons, Brian and Bev Simmons, Eunice and Doug Taylor, Gerry and Diane Thiel, Ken and Donna Thiel and Sue and Andy Markson. Sadly missed by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. Predeceased by sons John in infancy and Evan (1989) daughter Charlotte in infancy, sister-in-law Beth Simmons, brother-in-law Michael Walker and Richard’s parents Neil and Helen Walker.
Visitation in the J. M. McBeath Funeral Home, 49 Goshen St. N., Zurich on Sunday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. The Funeral service will be conducted in St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, Zurich on Monday, February 25, 2008 at 11 a.m. Pastor Ann Krueger officiating. Interment St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Alzheimer Society, St. Peter’s Lutheran Church or a charity of ones choice
A tree will be planted as a living memorial to Mary Walker-Thiel
WALKER-THIEL: (Simmons) Mary Avis Ann of Zurich
Haskett Funeral Homes
Condolence From: Judy Morrison
Dear “Hub” & all family members…
Cherish the great memories of a ‘real lady’…those memories will help you through the rough spots of grief.
A warm memory I would like to share was when Mary arrived at my door, the day before my son Ryan was born…and I was busy baking a batch of ginger cookies & Mary told the father of our children to call her when the baby is born…because Mary said “It’s going to be soon!” and she was so right! a positive woman…our newest guardian angel.
My prayers/thoughts are with you.
sincerely, Judy (“Hawkeye” Zurich Beaver Colony way back when)
Condolence From: Janis and Peter Bisback – Hensall
Dear Hub and family, I just cant believe that Mary is gone! I think of her every day.
I heard a hymn at church that speaks to Mary and her life
“We Shall Go Out With Hope of Resurrection” (#568 Voices United)
We shall go out with hope of resurrection
We shall go out from strength to strength to go on
We shall go out and tell our stories boldly
tales of love that will not let us go
We’ll sing our songs of wrongs that can be righted
we’ll dream our dreams of hurts that can be healed
we’ll weave a cloth of all the world united
within the vision of a new life in Christ
We’ll give a voice to those who have not spoken
We’ll find the words for those whose lips are sealed
We’ll make the tunes for those who sing no longer
expressive love alive in every heart
We’ll share our joy with those who still are weeping
Raise hymns of strength for hearts that break in grief
We’ll leap and dance the resurrection story
including all in circles of our love
Mary’s life was devoted to helping others, and we were truly privileged to have been part of her circle of love for over 30 years
God bless you all
Condolence From: Barry and Karen Thiel & Family
Dear Family,
Gosh, I don’t know where to start, but to say Mary was about as close to an “Angel on Earth” as there can be. Just to have known her was wonderful but then to actually have Mary and the older girls join us as relatives was a true honor. We are so thankful that we had such a great time with you all in the summer and even though the miles between us are great we have always felt close in our hearts.
God Bless you all and treasure the memories and wisdom that your wonderful wife and mother has left you with.
Love The Thiels.
Condolence From: Sandora and Kim Smith and Sharon Robinson
Our sympathy goes out to the Walker-Thiel family. We were sadden by the news of Mary’s passing and she will be greatly missed.
Condolence From: Murphy Bus Lines – Exeter
We wish to extend to your family our heartfelt sympathy as this time. Mary always had a smile and a pleasant word for everyone. She will be missed by the many people here that knew her and worked with her.
Derrick Becker, Julia Brintnell, Rick Langlands, Doug Armstrong and all our drivers at Murphy Bus Lines in Exeter.
Condolence From: winnie wilds vanderspek
i worked with mary at the poulan in huron park and she was a very good person. i send you my condolences and sorry to hear of you lost.
Condolence From: Cheryl (Smith) Kennedy
Jennette and Sarah;
So shocked to hear the news, losing a mom is so powerful. Mary was such a hard worker and a wonderful person to know. She will be sadly missed by everybody that she knew. Brownies will never be the same!!! All the crafts, games and sleep overs!!! Thinking of you at this time. Cheryl, Sherri,Tracy and Chad Smith
Condolence From: Elaine Clarke
Our thoughts and prayers are with during this difficult time. Mary was such a special lady.
Elaine, Darren and Dustin Clarke
Condolence From: Betty Kuchta
Dearest Rev. Gord:
I am so sorry about the tragic loss of your sister, Mary. I know you are a very close family – you speak so highly of everyone often. Please extend my condolences to the entire family. She is leaving a wonderful legacy – there will be many wonderful stories for her husband and children to tell of the special footprint she has left on this earth. Thinking of you all. Love and prayers, Betty Kuchta
Condolence From: Sherman, Michaela and Amanda Kelland
To the Theil Family,
We are all saddened by the unexpected loss of Mary, she was a loving, caring and genuine person. She gave so much of herself to everyone and anyone, her endless hours of giving to children will be sorely missed by all. She truly had a heart of GOLD. We are all better people for knowing her. We hold you close in our hearts and prayers at this time. There are not enough words to describe what Mary has done for everyone.
Condolence From: Janet Willsie McMullen
I would like to express my sadness at hearing of Mary’s death. We lived around the corner from each other and often walked to school and home together. I remember Mary as a lovely and gentle girl. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this particularily difficult time.
Condolence From: Rob &Brenda Grenier
Hub & Family Deepest sympathy to you &your family Rob Brenda & GIRLS
Condolence From: Jennifer & Robin Reinke
Mike, Meaghan and family. We are very sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts are with you during this tragic time. Jennifer and Robin Reinke
Condolence From: Ashley Mason
Dear Sarah and family, I am sorry for your loss, my deepest sympathies are extended to you and your family at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Ashley
Condolence From: Laurie, Dave, Nicole and Michelle Russell
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are so sorry for your loss. Mary will be dearly missed.
Condolence From: Wayne Cook
Hub and Family, Deepest sympathies to you all at this difficult tme. Our thoughts are with you. Sincerely Wayne & Cathy
Condolence From: Denise Oliver
May you find comfort in remembering all the love with which Mary touch your lives’s. This precious gift will be with you always. With Deepest Sympathy from Ken Sherman, Gary and Sheila Sherman, Melanie Carter and Keith Moat, Ken and Denise Oliver, Annette and Rob Bloomfield,
Condolence From: Bob & June Fisher
We are extremely sorry for the loss of your beloved wife & mother. Our hearts & prayers are with you. Bob & June Fisher
Condolence From: Kathy DaSilva (Keller)
Hub and Family, You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Kathy, Kasie and Kyle DaSilva
Condolence From: DON MASSE
Dear Hub& Family With sincerest sympathy to you and your family. Thinking of you at this most difficult time .
Don &Alice Masse
Condolence From: Cathy Litwin
Dear Sarah and Family, God holds you in His hands, and He will carry you when you are no longer able to walk. “I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Cathy
Condolence From: Cathy Litwin
Dear Sarah and Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you.God holds you in His hands,and He will carry you when you are no longer able to walk. “I am with you always,even to the end of the age.” Matthew 28:20
Condolence From: Jo Van Loon
To Mary’s family: I lost touch with Mary years ago but we got to know each other very well when we went to school together for a year in Seaforth to an Adult Education Class in 1990. She was an inspiration to us all having just gone through a terrible tragedy with her family. It is so very sad that this had to happen when you have gone through so much already. She was a very kind and understanding person and my sympathy goes out to all of you on your loss of a wife, mother and grandmother.
Condolence From: Christa Ducharme
Dear Hub and family, Mary was one-of-a-kind; the most gentle and kind person. God has truly gained an angel in heaven. With love, and many prayers, Christa and Rob Ducharme and family
Condolence From: Colleen and Ian Smyth
Words can’t mend the heartache, But may you find strength in the love of family, And warm embrace of friends. Mary was an amazingly giving and caring individual who touched the lives of many around her. We are thinking of you at this difficult time. love Colleen and Ian Smyth
Condolence From: patwalper
Hub words cannot say how much you and your family means to me and my family you know how Mary is a big part of my life and you will always be my friend. If there is anything I can do for you. I am a phone call away I love you all. Your family is very special to ours hope we can continue to remain part of your family. with love Pat and Boys
Condolence From: Julie Healy (McBride)
My Condolence’s go out to ur Family I will never forget the talk’s her and i have had over the years when i lived in Zurich
Condolence From: Ron and Dianne Ducharme
To Hub and family We are sending our prayers and deepest sympathy to you and your family in the loss of your loved one It’s very sad and heart breaking.
Condolence From: Josh
Dear Sarah, My thoughts are with you and your family. Josh “What the heart has once known, it shall never forget.” ~Author unknown
Condolence From: Dennis & Nancy Thomson (Walker)
Dear Simmons family: Words cannot express the shock and sorrow I felt when I read of Mary’s sudden home-going. I always considered her one of my best friends growing up and I am very sorry for your loss. Please be assured of our prayers for you all at this time.
Condolence From: Tom and Leisa McBride
Hub and family Our sympathy goes to you at this time. Mary was a wonderful person who always gave from her heart 100%. Our daughter mentioned this morning how she remembered going and swimming in your pool one summer when Mary invited us out. The kids will always have her memory for all the help she gave at church, sunday school and bible school.She always had a smile on her face.
Condolence From: Meghan O’Rourke
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Meghan
Condolence From: Bev & Jack
Mike, Heather & Family: We are so very sorry to hear of the loss of your dear sister Mary. Please accept our sincere condolences and know you are in our thoughts and prayers. As always, Bev & Jack Carter
Condolence From: Bev & Jack Carter
Georgina and Gord: Our sincere condolences on the loss of your dear daughter Mary. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Bev (nee Truscott) & Jack Carter
Condolence From: Susan, Douglas, Bronwyn and Alan Armstrong
Dear Hub, Katherine and Mathew, We are so very sorry to hear of your tragic loss. It was a shock to hear of the car accident and a greater sadness to hear of Mary’s death. I struggle with the words, suffice it to say that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. We know you are surrounded by family and friends and the road to recovery will be swifter for you, because of it. Sending our love along with the entire Scouting community. Susan, Douglas, Bronwyn and Alan Armstrong
Condolence From: Keriann O’Rourke
Dear Thiel – Walker Family, My deepest sympathy goes out to your family during this time. I am so very sorry to hear of your loss and I know that Mary was a very, very special person in all of your lives and I am sure she knows how much she has been loved and will be missed by yourselves and all those who met her. My thoughts and love are with you during this difficult time.
My sympathies, Keriann O’Rourke Singapore
Condolence From: Bryan, Cathleen and Robyn Denomme
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time.
Condolence From: Scot Ferguson and Family
Dear Hub and Family: Mary will always be in my heart. Scot Our thoughts are with you.
Condolence From: Kevin and Lorraine Steckle
Someone once said to me that Mary was an angel. I agreed. She had such a gentle spirit and loved children. My son was one of the kids she babysat at Heart to Heart Ministries at the Zurich Mennonite Church. She was always doing crafts with them and even had tea parties! We pray that God will give you strength through this difficult time and in the future. Kevin and Lorraine Samantha, Katrina and Josiah
Condolence From: Sherrie & John Thomson
Our deepest sympathy is with Mary’s family at this difficult time. Sherrie & John Thomson
Condolence From: kitch and Diane Pavlick
So very sorry .Our condolences go out to you and your family at this sad time. Diane worked with Mary at Poulan for many years and says she was one of the nicest people she would ever want to meet.Hub may remember Kitch from Gen Coach. Our thoughts are with your family Hub
Our sincere sympathy to Hubert Thiel & all family members in this difficult time of your loss God Bless you abundantly
Condolence From: Brian Wilson
Please accept my heart felt sympathies for Mary’s passing. I worked with Mary at Robert Q and knew her for too short a time. I enjoyed our times in Detroit together even though they were but a few.
Condolence From: Peggy Ducharme
my sympathy is with you and your family
Condolence From: Alexandra
I worked with Mary for just a short time and she was such a lovely person. She will be missed very much. My prayers go out to her family at this time.
Condolence From: tina riley-ankers
i am very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. she was a great person and i have known her for a few years as she was my brownie leader for a few years. she was a wonderful person and she was always there to help whoever needed her help and she Will be missed by all. i am so glad that i got to know her and i am a better person for knowing her.
Condolence From: Carolyn and Peter Mathonia
Please accept this offer of condolence to Mary’s family at this most difficult time. Each life she touched was done with gentleness and love…the essence of her. Mary was truly a special person. Thinking of you and praying for you all. Carolyn
Condolence From: Aimee & Darren Rau and family
Dear Hub and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Mary was an incredible lady and will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune of knowing her. Aimee, Darren, Veronica & Andrew Rau
Condolence From: Jo-Ann and Dave Harrison
We were very sorry to hear of the sudden loss of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you , Meeghan and the Thiel family.Keep strong and know that we are all thinking of you in Campbellford and at Darlington. Will get together when things are not so rushed for you two. We know you can do it Mike, Jo-Ann and Dave
Condolence From: VON Palliative Care Volunteer Program
To the Thiel Family, Please accept our deepest sympathy on the loss of Mary. Mary’s death was so unexpected and sudden. Our thoughts are with you in your loss and sadness. Sincerely, Karen Lehnen VON Palliative Care Volunteer Program
Condolence From: Wayne Clausius
Dear Hubert and Family I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright. I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more. I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive. I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger. I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting. I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess. I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye. God bless you world traveller!
Condolence From: Susan and Joe Hampson
Dear Simmons and Thiel families: We were so very sorry to read on the internet of the tragic passing of Mary. Many the many wonderful memories of happier times give you the strength and courage at this sad time. Most sincerely, Susan and Joe Hampson (Christ Church, Oxford Centre) Flowertree Cave, Cave, Westmoreland, Jamaica, West Indies
Condolence From: John & Darlene Robinson & Family
Walker-Thiel family We are so sorry for your loss, our wishes and prayers are with you through this tragic time. We wish you all the best and Mary will be truly missed, she touched so many people’s lives in more ways then one. John & Darlene Robinson & Melissa (Robinson) Maxwell
Condolence From: Angela Rose and Joe MacLeod
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. As you grieve, know that we are thinking of you and honouring the memory of your mom. Joe and Ang
Condolence From: Chris Caldwell
To the Walker- Theil Family. There are not enough words to express our sympathy to you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Each life that Mary came upon was touched in ways that you will never know. She affected everyone she met. God used her in countless ways on this earth. She will truly be missed. May God’s peace and comfort be yours. Mike, Chris & Ryan Caldwell
Condolence From: Judy Hansen
I am very sorry to here the loss of Mary-Walker-Thiel. I well miss Mary a lot. I well miss having suppers with Mary and her Family. I well miss helping Mary out in leading a Brownie Group. I well also miss seeing her happy face at ARC. She well also be missed by all that knew Mary-Walker-Thiel.
Condolence From: Linda Webber
l met Mary at Curves with her client “Crystal”.She was always laughing at something, what a way to remember her . My “New” grandchildren ” Kate & Zach Ryan” are sadden to her of the passing of a friends Mother. Our deepest sympathy to everyone. “One Day At A Time”
Condolence From: Harold and Marni Van Aaken
To the Walker-Thiel Family, Our deepest sympathy to you all and our prayers are with you through this time. The community will miss Mary
Harold, Marni, Amanda, Jessica and Adrienne
Condolence From: Brian and Michelle DePaepe
Hub, Katherine, Matthew, Jeannette, Sarah, Janet, Mike, and family Our prayers and deepest sympathy for the loss of a truly special person. Mary was a kind, gentle soul. She would do anything to help someone in need, and touched the heart of each person she met. I feel very blessed to have had Mary as a friend and we will miss her very much. May you find healing and peace in God’s love.
Condolence From: Allan T. Thiel
Hi Hubert Our sincere condolences to you and your family in the sudden loss of Mary. Doug keeps us informed with as much as possible in regards to family in the Zurich area.
Allan, Gail and family from Vernon, BC.
Condolence From: Is and Paula LaPorte and Family
Hub and Family Our deepest sympathy and our prayers go out to you at this your most vulnerable time. We hope that you can find solace in your memories and peace in the arms of your children and family.
Condolence From: Phyllis Collett Crediton Ont
I am very sorry to hear of Marys accident and her passing. Mary has been a friend for a lot of years. God bless the family that is left to mourn the loss of a loved one. You are in our prayers
Condolence From: Harv & Evelyn Vincent
Hub and family, Sincere Sympathy. What a great loss. Mary was loved by so many and will be greatly missed. Praying for each of you.
Condolence From: Wendy & Ross Long
Jennette & Sarah, It is with great sadness that we learned of your mother’s passing today. She was truly the most precious, nurturing gracious and loving individual we have had the privilege of knowing. She is very special to Josh. We regret the pain you have to endure at this time but your mom has a much better place in heaven where she is meant to be. Be strong. If there is something that we can assist you with or help in anyway or anytime please do not hesitate to call us. We now live in London (519) 495-1114. Sincerely Wendy & Ross
Condolence From: Randy and Colleen Hill
Hub, Sarah, Jeanette, Catherine, Matthew and family We were so saddened to learn of the great loss of your dear wife and mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Love you Sarah, we will be in touch. Love, Colleen and Randy
Condolence From: Theresa LaPorte
My deepest sympathy to you, Janet and Sarah, as well as the rest of your family. I can not imagine what you are going through but I will keep you all in my prayers. You are wonderful people and will get through this hard time. Theresa LaPorte
Condolence From: Wendy and Dave Heimrich
Hub and family, We send our deepest condolences during this time of sorrow. Mary was a great lady and a wonderful Sunday School teacher to the kids. She would welcome you with open arms and help anyone where needed. Please know that we are here for you and the kids and you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love Dave, Wendy and girls
Condolence From: Larry & Sharon Gibson
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing know that from all of us here in your old home town of Centralia are all thinking of you and your families at this very difficult time
Condolence From: Bill Tinney
Hubert and family Thinking of you at this very difficult time Cherish the memories they will be with you forever. God Bless.
Condolence From: Barbara Isaac ( work for CLSH)
I had a privilege of working with Mary many years ago and it was an honor to get to know her, she was a wonderful lady who loved her job and cared deeply about the people she worked with. Mary had a kind heart and would give her shirt off of her back for someone, she was always thinking of others before herself. It is with my deepest sympathy to the family and those that loved her. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Barbara Isaac
Condolence: Hub, Sarah and family Our deepest condolences to all of you at this most difficult time. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Colleen, Randy, Laura and Patrick
Condolence From: Kim & Judy McKinnon
Hub & Family Please know that we are keeping all of you in our thoughts & prayers at this difficult time.
Condolence From: Jacquee and Kris Leppington
Our thoughts and prayers are with Jennette and your family during this time. Please let us know if there is anything at all we can do.
Condolence: Hub & Family We were shocked to hear about this tragedy. We are thinking about you… Sean & Wendy
Condolence: My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I will send my memorial donation directly to the church in memory of Mary.
In Sympathy: Aunty Thelma, Dianne and MaryEllen
Condolence From: Lyal Tait and Karen Phillips-Tait
We did not know Mary in person, but, certainly feel as we do from the many things that her brother Pat has shared about her. There is not much we can say at a time like this, but, just know that our thoughts and prayers are with Mary’s entire family at this time, and, in the future as you will all now walk a new journey in life – just remember that you will not walk the journey alone.
Condolence: Hub and family Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of loss . Mary will be missed by so very many people . Dor
Condolence: We are so very sad to hear the news of your loss. She was a wonderful person and we will miss her friendship. We are sending our love and prayers.
Condolence From: Linda bousfield
Dear Mike, Heather and Family ; Our deepest condolences. Sorry to hear of the loss of your sister. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Linda & Earl
Condolence: We are all sadden by our lose of Mary. Mary was the kindest person we have ever known and probably ever will know. We are all suffering a great lose. Our hearts go out to your two blended families, that became one great family. Love to you all. Nathleen
Condolence: We are all suffering a great lose, Mary was the kindest person we have every known or will probably know. Our hearts go out to your two families, that blended and became one great family because of Mary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love Nathleen
Condolence: My sincere sympathy to all the family at this difficult time. Treasure your memories of a very special girl. Love. Dorothy
Condolence: To the Walker-Thiel-Simmons family: Our deepest sympathy to all of Mary’s family. Mary was a very kind, gentle and loving person and has touched the lives of many. Our prayers are with you all. George & Marg (Christ Church Oxford Centre)
Condolence: Dear Hub and Family, Norma and I just found out about Mary and are so sad about her accident and death. She was a light to all those who just talked to her–full of God’s love and kindness and a joy to be around. When we spoke this summer she so loved all her children and was so proud of all their accomplishments. We hope they know their Mother adored them and is smiling down on them from heaven. And Hub, we are so sorry for your loss–both Norma and I know the pain of loss and will keep you and your family in our prayers.
With Love and sympathy, Donna and Norma
Condolence: We enjoyed getting to know Mary on our trip to Europe, she was a wonderful person. Our heartfelt condolences to Hub and family.