We Remember
PAUL-MANTON, Margaret Ann
September 21, 1959 — November 5, 2023
It is with great sadness, that we announce the passing of our beautiful Margaret Manton, 64, born September 21, 1959, in Toronto, ON, and died November 5, 2023, at the Central Okanagan Hospice House, in Kelowna, BC.
Raised in Toronto and Lafayette California, Margaret was the youngest of four children. She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Bruce McTavish; children Kelsi (Brett), Mark (Lily); grandchildren Kenna and Kinsley; stepchildren Lindsay, Tara (Josh); step-grandchildren Peter Jack, Camden, and Cora; sister Louise; brother James (Nancy) and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sister Wendy (Deyril), brother-in-law Brian (Louise), and her parents Robert and Phyllis Paul.
Margaret made the move to Vancouver in 1982. Being of an adventurous nature, she took advantage of an opportunity to use a Commonwealth Work Travel visa in Australia and travelled for 9 months, circumnavigating the country hitchhiking, staying in hostels, and working on sheep farms. Following that she crewed on a sailboat for 3 months with a family friend in the South Pacific. Both were life-changing events.
Returning to Vancouver she worked as a travel agent and then using her natural creativity she developed her own gift basket business. During this time, she discovered Whistler ski resort and spent weekends at a cabin there, honing what became a real passion. Margaret was born to ski.
Margaret was married to Dale Manton in 1991 with this ending in divorce in 2006. She had two beautiful children with Dale and remained a dedicated mother to them both until the very end. Both Kelsi and Mark were introduced to skiing at a very young age at Big White. Skiing served as a family passion during their childhood years as they participated in the ski racing program. Friends and family were always welcome at the ski condo to enjoy a delicious soup and sandwich. More recently there was a jigsaw puzzle on the go or an opportunity to play a game of Wizards.
Bruce McTavish skied into Margaret’s life in 2011. Sharing a passion for skiing, they were married in 2018. Margaret incorporated Bruce’s 2 daughters and their families into her world as if they were her own. They spent winters at Big White where Margaret served the Big White community as a volunteer Snow Host, guiding visitors to the mountain down her favourite runs. It was always a pleasure to follow her elegant skiing style, seeking out the new and the best snow. The next time you are at Big White, take a turn on Born to Run and imagine a tall, powerful Margaret gracefully leading you down the mountain.
The summers found Bruce and Margaret by Lake Okanagan enjoying their friends, cycling, paddleboarding, and waterskiing. Australian Shepard Millie was their steady companion for walks in the neighbourhood and on the mountain. A McTavish family cabin known as ‘The Shaque’ was a favourite destination on San Juan Island. Crabbing, beach walks, kayaking, and the occasional visit to the local gin distillery were all highlights on the island. Margaret took great delight and became an expert in making delicious crab cakes.
Through her journey living with cancer, she became a compassionate friend lending a caring ear to many. Margaret strived for a healthier lifestyle changing her diet, staying active, and putting the cancer in remission for 8 years.
Thanks to Dr. Mike Carter for his care over the last 20 years, and the compassionate nurses and staff, at Okanagan Hospice House, with a special thanks to Boel Leftrook.
In lieu of flowers please make a generous donation to the Central Okanagan Hospice House or a charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the El Dorado Hotel, 500 Cook Rd, Kelowna, BC on Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. A second celebration will take place in the new year at Big White.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Location
El Dorado Hotel, 500 Cook Road, Kelowna, BC
Share with Others:
Central Okanagan Hospice House Link: www.hospicehousekelowna.com
Service Information
Service Details
The service for PAUL-MANTON, Margaret Ann is scheduled for Thursday, November 16, 2023, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Address & Contact for Service Location:
El Dorado Hotel, 500 Cook Road, Kelowna, BC
500 Cook Road, Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
Dear Bruce & family,
How heartbreaking to hear of Margaret’s passing, far too soon! Margaret’s love of family and life were evident in all areas of her presence.
I cherish the positive glow Margaret always exuded, with her radiant smile and warmth of personality. It was a treat for me and many others, to have shared snow host duties and tours with Margaret at Big White.
Hugs!
Brenda Lightfoot
So many wonderful memories with Margaret during our breakfast waterski mornings ( I scored big time when I was paired up with Margaret and Irene), and up at Big White, Rest in peace Margaret
My sincere condolences to all who loved her!
My sincere condolences
We send our deepest sympathy to Margaret’s family. I had the honour of skiing with Margaret at BW. She was so beautiful. It is with a heavy heart I send this, in particular to Margaret’s beloved husband Bruce, and sister Louise. Sincerely, Marilyn Kennedy
Bruce and family,
I still cant believe that Margaret has passed. Gone way too soon. My heart is full of decades of wonderful memories We shared together.. From working together as Travel Agents in Vancouver,
to enjoying many fun filled years as parents ,where we would ski together with our kids at Big White..
I will miss Margaret dearly.. She will always hold a special place in my heart.
Becky Shepard
Oh, Bruce, you know that I of all people know what you are going thru right now, and how you are feeling. Smile at the memories, and know that you and Margaret made the best of the time you had–you lived!!!!!! Sending hugs and love, Lin
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Dear Bruce and family, we are very sad to hear of Margaret’s passing and offer our deepest condolences and prayers to you all.
Angi and Helmut
Margaret and I at her wedding in 1991.
I was honored to be her maid of honor.
Julie and I got to know Margaret through snow hosting at Big White. She will always be remembered by us by her big smile and positive energy. Bruce we are so sorry for your loss she will be missed by all who encountered her!