Obituary of Mary Christina Cronin

MARY CRONIN 1948-2006 Peacefully at the Palliative Care Unit, Pasqua Hospital, Regina on Sunday evening March 12 with family by her side. Mary had lived with ovarian cancer for more than five years, and the patient, dignified and understanding way she approached her illness was an inspiration to all who knew her. She leaves her devoted husband, Douglas Stewart, loving and adored daughter, Clarisse Douaud, and step-children Suzanne, Duncan, Iain and Andrew Stewart whom she so warmly embraced. She is also survived by her beloved parents, Josephine and Daniel Cronin of Killarney, Ireland, two sisters, eight brothers and many nieces and nephews. Mary was born in Killarney and began her professional career as an elementary teacher. She received a BA (Hons) in Social Sciences from University College Dublin in 1975, and in 1982, after emigrating to Canada, a PhD from the University of Alberta. As a Professor of Education at the University of Regina Mary had the rare ability to move with ease between university and community and bridge the gap between theory and practice. She bristled at the slightest whiff of injustice, especially when it involved children of low-income families and those marginalized because of their sexual orientation. This commitment to social justice translated into countless hours of volunteering her professional expertise at the Early Learning Centre for inner-city pre-school children from disadvantages backgrounds. She co-authored an Aboriginal family literacy programme, which she helped implement at the Centre and in schools on Reserves. Of equal concern to her was the hurt and suffering experienced by gay and lesbian students, the outcome of which was a co-edited collection of essays by various educators. Marys compassion also found expression in helping newly arrived student refugees make their adjustment to Canadian university life. Among the several honours she received, the most rewarding to her were the Distinguished Service Award from the Canadian Association for Young Children (2002) and the University of Regina Alumnae Award for Excellence in Public Service (2004). During her years of illness Mary considered herself blessed to be embraced and supported by so many dear friends, including the womens and meditation groups, from whom she derived energy, hope, and spiritual peace. Her keen intellect and robust common sense, her flair, and her Irish wit and charm touched all with whom she worked and associated. Mary was loved unconditionally and will be deeply missed. Her funeral service is Friday March 17 at 2pm at First Presbyterian Church, Albert Street and 14th Avenue, Regina. The family expresses its sincere gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Rayson, her family physician, Dr. Van Rooyen, Dr. Clein, the wonderful nurses in the Allan Blair Clinic and Palliative Unit, and those in Home Care assistance. Donations in memory of Mary may be made to the Early Learning Centre (Regina) or the Centre for Integrated Healing (Vancouver). An on-line book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com