Obituary of Gladys Irene Crich

Gladys Irene Crich (nee Bradwell) was born on the farm north of Macklin on June 25, 1930. She was the fourth oldest of twelve children to Bill and Alice Bradwell. The Bradwell’s farmed and the older kids went to Meadowlands School until 1948, then the family moved into Macklin. She married Arthur Herbert Crich on December 28, 1949. Gladys and Art were blessed with three children, Leslie, Norma, and Donald.  

Through the years Gladys worked at several different jobs including telephone operator at Eye Hill Telephone Company, part time at the Macklin Post Office and her favourite job was as the Activity Director at the Golden Twilight Lodge. She loved to organize entertainment, taking the residents out for rides or shopping. There always seemed to be something going on at GTL from Easter Hat Parades, bowling, or playing Bingo. At Christmas time, Mrs. Claus always arrived to hand out gifts and good cheer. Gladys retired from the Golden Twilight lodge at the end of June 1995, after 25 years of service. In addition to working, Gladys was always a part of any event going on in town from putting on the annual Ice Carnival, decorating floats in parades, and putting together the Macklin history book.  She was also a lifetime member of the Grace United Church and the United Church Women. Gladys was an avid knitter and there are many children in Macklin and area who have worn one of her hand-knit hooded sweaters.

She remained in her own home until 2015 when she moved to the Villa Marie Assisted Living Facility, where she spent several happy years. In October 2021, when her health was failing, she moved to St. Joseph’s Health Centre, where she resided until she passed on April 20, 2024.

She is survived by her daughter, Norma and son-in-law, Jerry; and her son, Don and daughter-in-law, Donna; five grandchildren, Lesley (Chris) Schwan, Mandy (Tyler) Gartner, Allison Boulanger, Cameron Boulanger and Chris (Alexis) Crich. As well as her great-grandchildren, Nicholas, Benjamin, Parker, Zachary, Carson and Cooper.  She loved spending time with her boys, and they brought her much joy. She is also survived by two sisters, Violet Lock and Velma (Joe) Downing; one brother, Sid (Mary) Bradwell; and sisters-in-law, Rita Bradwell and Jenny Bradwell; and many nieces and nephews and lots of friends who were like her family.

Gladys was predeceased by her husband, Art; son, Leslie; parents, Bill and Alice Bradwell; in-laws, Leslie and Edith Crich; many of her immediate family and all of Art’s family.
 

Gladys had an absolute joy of life, and she lived it to the fullest. Her favourite colour was red, and she loved to wear brooches. With that in mind, we ask if you can, and are attending her funeral that you wear something red or a brooch on your lapel.

A Funeral Service will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Macklin, Saskatchewan with Pastor Fred Sirett officiating. Private family interment will follow at the Lakeview Cemetery.

Gladys' service will be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend. The livestream will be available through the GFH website under Gladys' obituary at the time of the service.