Passed away peacefully at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London with her family by her side on Monday, August 14, 2023 at the age of 91. Beloved wife for 51 years of the late Gerald Whidden. Proud mother of Linda, Bruce (Lesley), and Harvey. Loving grandmother to Heather; Adam, Christopher, David; Dylan, and Erin and great-grandmother to Ava, and Ashton. Dear sister of Reneè, Carmen and sister-in-law of Leo, Amy, Edna, and Ernest. Predeceased by her parents Ovila and Yvonne (Morin) Fredette, siblings, Jacqueline, Fernand, Jeannine, and Diane, sister-in-law Velma, and her parents-in-law Robie and Annie Whidden.
Born June 12th, 1932 in Quebec City Gisele moved at an early age with her family to Sherbrooke, Quebec. After she married Gerald Whidden, she moved to Sudbury, Ontario. Gisele loved to knit, sew, do crafts, and pick wild blueberries that she turned into jam and pies. Her freezer was always well stocked with ice cream and home baked goodies. She was an active member of her church, making banners, helping with the church bazaar and a member of the Catholic Women’s League. Gisele was also an active member throughout her community, which include organizing fundraisers for playgrounds, helping neighbours, and lunch room monitoring at local schools.
Gisele will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Her front door was always open, and neighbors would drop in for early morning coffee to share a laugh or help her pin or rip out her many sewing projects. Special thank you to the Nurses and PSWs at Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, London, Marian Villa Third Floor, for the loving care and support they provided to Gisele.
In keeping with Gisele’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at a later date at Saint-Philippe de Windsor Cemetery, Windsor, QC. Arrangements entrusted to Cremation & Celebrations, Arva (519-963-4003).
In lieu of flowers donations to your local Alzheimer Society would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Rick Csiernik says
Linda, I am very sorry to learn of the passing of your mother. Please accept my sincere condolences.
Rick
Robert Ventresca says
Dear Linda and family,
My deepest condolences for your loss. Linda, I know from our many conversations how deep was the bond with your mother. May the memories and living legacy of affection sustain you during this difficult time. And may Gisele Rest in Peace.
Julie Siverns says
Linda and Heather,
I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mom/Grandmother sounds as if she was an amazing and caring woman. Wishing happy memories help you through those tough moments.
Hugs,
Julie, Jim and Lucas
Laura Lewis says
Linda and your family
So sorry to learn of your loss. Linda, you are in my thoughts with the hope that your memories of your mother and your mother’s love will guide you always .
Laura Lewis
Kings University College
Erna May Smith says
Linda, Bruce, Harvey and family, so sorry to hear about Aunt Gisele’s passing. I will always remember all the special treats your mom had for us whenever we visited in Sudbury and all the fun times we had as kids. I know she will be missed dearly by all who knew her.
Karen Whidden Campbell says
Aunt Gisele was always a role model for me. As a young girl I remember her always being so radiant, dressed so stylish.
Loved listening to her speak with her accent.
I can remember going to the clothing store and being amazed. Very busy woman but managed to handle it all.
We moved back to Nova Scotia, but those memories of play time with the cousins, and the big meals we had are near and dear to my heart.
Loved her no nonsense way and she always said “such is life” which I have incorporated into my life and use the expression often.
Rest easy Aunt Gisele and say hi to Uncle Gerald.
Joan Aikman says
So sorry for your loss. Heaven has gained another worthy angel x
Stew and Mary Spry says
Linda we were heartbroken to hear about your mom’s passing. She was a good friend for many years and we have missed her since she moved to London.
Martha Gordon says
My deepest condolences, Linda, Bruce and Harvey and your families. Your mom always had a laugh or joke when I visited her. Such a lovely lady who will be sorely missed.