MANNING, Marlie

April 6, 1947 - April 24, 2024. With her brothers at her side, Marlie died peacefully on April 24 in Victoria General Hospital, following a trip and fall accident at her home. She was predeceased by the love of her life, Tom Ward, her beloved husband of 20 years. She leaves behind brothers, Spencer (Kathleen) and John (Alison Purvis); sister, Kathleen Mackenzie (Blair); and Tom’s daughters, Jennifer (Ben) and Johanna. Marlie spent her youth in Edmonton, AB, then moved to Toronto, where she enjoyed a career as an adoption worker and psychotherapist. After her marriage to Tom in 2001, they moved to Halifax, and later to Victoria. Together, they greatly enjoyed traveling, gardening, and cooking endless delicious meals for family, friends and a stream of houseguests. They were also enthusiastic supporters of Victoria’s arts community. Marlie was active all her life, and especially enjoyed cycling (Gran Fondo Whistler 2010/12) and hiking (West Coast Trail 2022). Everything revolved around relationships; when you were talking to her you felt you were the most important person in her life. She was an enthusiastic cheerleader at grandson Sam’s baseball games, and granddaughter Ellie’s horseshows. Nephews Ian and Graham remember long talks with their understanding aunt. Recently, Marlie and Tom sponsored four refugee families, who eventually became their friends. We will greatly miss Marlie’s lively, fun-loving spirit. A Celebration of Life is being planned in two to three weeks in Marlie’s garden in Victoria. To be notified please email Marlie’s sister Kathleen: kmm.viola@gmail.com Donations to honour Marlie may be made to Dying With Dignity Canada, the Victoria Immigrant and Refugee Center, or your favourite arts community.