May 9, 1928 – October 3, 2024
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our cherished Mom, Grandma, and Great- Grandma Helen “Marie” Pilon (nee Vickers) in her 97th year. Marie passed away peacefully at the Meaford LTC on October 3rd. Daughter of the late Eva Mary Vickers, Marie was predeceased by her loving husband Oliver of 35 years. Also predeceased by her very special Uncle Elymer Vickers.
Marie was the beloved Mom of John Vickers, Lary Pilon (predeceased), Allan Pilon (Lisa), and Leita Peacock (Jim).
She was a dedicated and doting grandmother to her grandchildren Liz, Pamela (Michael), Connie, Rob (Amy), Chris (Angela), Anne (Jes), Jeff (predeceased) (Ashley), Daren (friend Alisha), and Angela (Andrew).
Marie’s many great-grandchildren were her pride and joy. Her face lit up with huge smiles whenever family would visit. It gave her the greatest pleasure, whether the gathering was large or small.
Marie was born and raised in Meaford and attended Riverside School where she was an excellent student. She spent her early years working on the family farm and later became a proud textile weaver, moving to various cities as a result of her skill.
She enjoyed baking, cooking, bowling, mini golf, knitting, and was a dedicated Blue Jays fan for many years.
She showed her community spirit through her participation in the annual Meaford Fall Fair. Her multiple domestic entries earned many prizes, and she was best known for her apple pies and fruit cakes which were always made with a heaping of love. Her knitting and other handmade entries were also recognized favourably. Marie continued to support the local fair until she was 90.
Marie also loved to garden from seeds and found it so gratifying to watch them grow. Whether vegetables or flowers, if there was a little bit of green still showing, she held up hope even if the chance of survival was slim.
She enjoyed her church community and fancied a chat with anyone she would meet while she was about town.
To our dear Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma — your passing has left a huge void for all of us who loved you so deeply. We will honour your memory and all that you taught us about strength and resilience. You modelled a life of grace and in tough times you never complained. You have been an example of acceptance, understanding, and unconditional love. You always worked incredibly hard and it is now your time to rest in peace. Your legacy of tenacity, compassion, and gentleness will always remain in our hearts. We will miss you and love you forever.
Thank you to the caring staff of the Meaford Long Term Care for the kindness and compassion you showed towards our Mom during her stay. You made her smile often.
A funeral service will be conducted at the Ferguson Funeral Home on October 8, 2024, at 11 a.m., with visiting the hour prior.
As your expression of sympathy, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Alzheimer Society Grey-Bruce, or the Meaford Nursing Home Auxiliary (cheques only please) would be appreciated and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON, N4L 1B9, to whom arrangements have been entrusted. www.fergusonfuneralhomes.ca
