It is with a broken heart that I announce the passing of my Mari on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
To those of you who knew Mari well, it will come as no surprise that she drafted her own obituary. These are her words that follow.
I was born December 6, 1963, in St. Petersburg, Florida, but apart from and enjoyable 6 years in B.C., I spent most of my life in beautiful Northwestern Ontario. I completed my HBSW at Lakehead University in 1987, working in that field for a few years before returning to school and achieving my CA designation in 1996 at the Institute of CA, B.C. I spent most of my working life as an accountant, but I always remained a social worker at heart, believing passionately in human rights and social justice. I was also a lifelong learner, having acquired a love for learning and a passion for reading from my mother.
I was blessed to find the love of my life, Kris, when I was only 22. We shared many adventures over our years together; 8 homes, 4 cats, 3 dogs, some memorable trips by road and air, much music, much laughter, and much love.
I was a country girl at heart and was lucky enough to enjoy the beauty of country living for 12 years. A cup of tea in the middle of the field, my dogs and cats lying beside me, was a favourite way to spend a sunny summer morning. For an evening, add a campfire, a group of friends, a few guitars, and life couldn’t be more perfect. I treasured my friends immeasurably, including my sister, and my nearly 40 year friendship with Bill W., and was thankful for my friends’ presence in my life.
“Live your best life, friends.”
Words of wisdom “Is it the journey or the destination? Neither. It’s the company.”
Mari is survived by and will be lovingly and immensely missed by her spouse, Kris Rienelt; her sister, Carol (Doug) Williams; brothers, Joe (Nola) and Martin (Corinne); many dear friends and of course, her beloved pup, Mylo.
She will also be remembered by sister-in-law, Marga (Tom); brothers-in-law, Walter (Brenda), Eric (Susan), and Rolf (Carol); nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Mari was predeceased by her mother, Joyce, in 2012; mother-in-law, Anne, in 2014; her father, Jim, in 2018; aunts, uncles, other relatives, and most of her precious “zoo.”
Many thanks to the nurses and doctors at the TBRHSC Cancer Centre for the exemplary care given to Mari and myself over the time of Mari’s treatments there. Mari always appreciated what a wonderful team she had taking care of her. A special thank you to Dr. Aseyev, Dr. Simpson, Dr. Ward, Dr. Anthes, Laura Hendron, and Jocelyn.
Thank you also to the nurses from ParaMed for taking care of Mari’s home health needs.
A very special and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Ward and to Monica – Mari’s primary home care nurse.
At Mari’s request, there will be no memorial service. If friends so desire, a donation to a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
“Tell me, what should I have done?
Doesn’t everything die at last and too soon?
Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com
