Obituary of May Given

Peacefully at the age of 93, in hospital with family by her side, May went to join her husband, Stewart.

Devoted mother of Kathy (Pete), MaryAnn (Peter), and Alison (Laurie) Cherished grandmother of Paulson (Laura), Tommy, Julia, Charlotte (Austin) and Gregory. Great grandmother of Juniper, and best friend to her little dog Bernie. May will be deeply missed by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends. 

 

May was predeceased by her loving husband of 58 years, Stewart, devoted parents Paul and Jonina Paulson, beloved siblings Walter (Betty), Elizabeth (David) and Joe (Skip), nieces and nephews, father and mother-in-law Eric and Margaret Given and brother-in-law Tait Given. 

 

Born in Leslie, Saskatchewan, May was the youngest of her family. She was very bright, very loved, and eager to learn.  

 

She married Stewart Given in Prince Albert on August 30, 1958.  Stewart had a long career with Farm Credit Canada, and they moved many times, living in Tisdale, Regina, Yorkton, Ottawa, again Regina, Thornhill, Guelph and finally in Ottawa (Kanata) for retirement.  May and Stewart were both active with curling and lawn bowling. May enjoyed connecting with family and friends online where she was known to be a daunting scrabble opponent! 

 

May was very proud of her Icelandic Heritage and travelled twice to Iceland to meet extended relatives. Icelandic was spoken in her childhood home, and she was proud to continue to understand and speak Icelandic throughout her life. 

 

May was very close to all of her grandchildren and had a special bond with her autistic grandson Tommy. 

 

May's sense of humor, adaptability, selflessness, warmth and caring nature were appreciated by all who knew her. Her accepting and kind personality made everyone feel comfortable in her presence. 

 

Cremation has taken place.  A celebration of life is planned for the Spring of 2025 (date to be announced) at Highland Park Cemetery.  

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to support May's grandson Tommy by e-transfer to: supporttommy@autismmeansfriendship.com or to a charity of your choice.