Ida Lawrence (nee Ritchie) of Assiniboia, passed away September 10, 2014 at age 95. Ida Sarah Ritchie was born October 15, 1918 at Goodwater, where she grew up and attended school. She married Lyle Lawrence, a local school teacher, on August 28, 1937. They moved Cabri for 1940 to 1942, where Lyle continued teaching. He then entered the Civil Service working for the Postal Division in Moose Jaw. In 1948, they moved to Assiniboia where Lyle became a railway postal clerk, then worked at the Assiniboia Post Office in 1959, retiring in 1978. After the children were well on in school, Ida, a secretary, went back to work. She managed the ladies' wear at Ewald Witt's store, spent three years at the Court house in the License Department, and from 1962 - 1975 was Optometric Assistant for the late Dr. M.G. Forler, and later for Dr. R.A. Turriff. She retired in 1975. Lyle and Ida continued to make Assiniboia their home. Ida was a member of the United Church. She was a Charter Member of the U.C.W., a member of the Assiniboia Chapter #8, Order of the Eastern Star, where she held many positions, including Grand Conductress of the Grand Chapter of Saskatchewan. Predeceased by her husband Lyle, Ida is survived by four children: Belva (Doug) Knox of Mazenod, Jim (Myrna) of Bruno, Ron (Donna) of Ottawa, ON, and Greg (Christine) of Neville, 13 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren, two great great grandchildren. Graveside Service was held at Mount Hope Cemetery, Assiniboia on Wednesday, September 17, 2014. The Reverend Marilyn Leuty officiated. Funeral Rites were conducted by the Assiniboia Chapter #8, Order of the Eastern Star. Donations in Memory of Ida may be made to the Assiniboia Chapter #8, Order of the Eastern Star - Estarl. Fellowship followed at the Masonic Lodge. Arrangements entrusted to Ross Funeral Service, Assiniboia. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.rossfuneralservice.com.
