It is with profound sadness that the family of Thelma Jean Burnham (née Hawse) announces her passing on October 22nd, 2023, following a slow decline and a brief but difficult illness. Thelma left the world on her terms, and all who had the privilege to know and love her would not have expected anything less.
Born on September 27th, 1936, in North Hatley, Quebec, Thelma was the third daughter of Laura (Lottie) and Harold Hawse. She grew up on a farm and her formative years were spent riding horses and getting into all kinds of mischief with the help of her older sisters, Dulsie and Margaret.
At 17, Thelma met Lawrence “Rink” Burnham, and they were inseparable until his death in 1991. Their long and enduring partnership resulted in “The Burnham Boys” – Larry (Daphne), Bruce (Brenda), Maris (Norah), and Kevin (Laura). Her sons were everything to Thelma, and she was their greatest champion to the end. An excellent cook, (her beef stroganoff, homemade rolls and hot milk cake with maple fudge icing were legendary), her kitchen table was home not only to her boys, but all their friends as well. Thelma loved animals, especially her longtime companions Ring, Muffin and Tabby, was an avid reader and, in later years, was an active volunteer for Meals on Wheels.
Thelma will be lovingly remembered by her 8 grandchildren: Shane, Dina, Lisa, Robert, Cortney, Kelsey, Nuala, and Séamus, and her three great-grandchildren: Max, Luca, and Sasha. Proud of all their accomplishments, Thelma marveled at what wonderful, talented people they had become.
Honest, steadfast, stubborn, generous, and kind, Thelma was a force. She will be fondly remembered by Stella and Bob Burnham of Kitchener, Ontario, her nieces and nephews, and her lifelong friends Barbara Warner and Janet McLellan.
Many thanks to the staff at the Wales Home in Cleveland, Quebec. At Thelma’s request, there will be no visitation or service.
