Marjorie Fowler (McKerchar)

Marjorie Jean Fowler (McKerchar) Nee Gerrard of Strathclair, Manitoba passed away on Thursday, July 22, 2021 at Brandon,  Manitoba at the age of 89 years.

Marjorie (Tootie) was born on March 1, 1932 in the R.M. of Strathclair to Andrew and Frances (Foster) Gerrard. She was raised on the family farm in the R.M. of Strathclair and where she attended school. She continued her education  for nursing in Dauphin, Manitoba where she received her L.P.N.  qualifications.

On August 26, 1953, Marjorie was united in marriage to John Alexander (Alex) McKerchar. Together they farmed and raised their three sons: Ross, Vernon and Keith in Strathclair. Tootie utilized her L.P.N. training throughout the years having worked at the Shoal Lake Hospital and later at the Sandy Lake Personal Care Home. Marjorie always looked fondly upon her years at the care home and often spoke with a smile about her time there. Many can recall seeing her beetling down the  #45 Highway on her Kawasaki 90 cc red motorcycle, which she used to get to and from work.  Following Alex’s passing on April 11, 1986, she remained on the farm. On August 4, 1989 Marjorie married Sidney Fowler and they moved to reside in the Village of Strathclair.   Following Sidney’s passing on May 30, 2011, Tootie  continued to reside in Strathclair until the time of her passing. In recent times she could often be seen motoring around town on her red scooter.

Marjorie was predeceased by her parents: Andrew and Frances Gerrard; brothers: Edward, Murray and Billy; first husband, Alex McKerchar and her second husband, Sidney Fowler.    She was also predeceased by many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and extended family members in the Gerrard and McKerchar families

Marjorie is survived by her sons: Ross McKerchar of  Strathclair, Vernon (Brenda) McKerchar of Dauphin, Keith (Audrey) McKerchar of Strathclair; grandchildren: Nicole (Jim) Berkvens of Dauphin and Andrew McKerchar of Dauphin and great grandchildren; Gavin and Abby Berkvens and Avery-Jae McKerchar. Tootie is also survived by many extended family members in both the Gerrard and McKerchar families as well as numerous members of  Sidney Fowlers family in the Ottawa, Ontario area.

The family would like to acknowledge Garry Gerrard for his many trips he made to Winnipeg for Tootie’s eye appointments. A very special thank you to Randy and Marge next door and to very special friends of many years, Donna Mackie and Ida Bradlley.  Tootie truly loved you all.