The Icelandic Canadian - 01.10.2002, Page 35

Vol. 57 #2
THE ICELANDIC CANADIAN
77
life together with her three children - Irene her fifteen year-old foster daughter, Charlie her
fourteen year-old adopted son and Barney Jr., her six year-old son. Mattie was born the fol-
lowing year. Verna, Emma’s twelve year-old niece, arrived four years later and lived with the
family until her late teens.
Emma’s warmth and generosity were felt by many. She had an infectious laugh and a great
sense of humour. Emigrating from Iceland at the age of ten in 1894, she survived the hardships
suffered by the pioneers. Never complaining, she always encouraged Mattie and I to learn
more and to reach higher. She was self-taught, not having had the opportunity to attend
school. She learned to read and to write Icelandic, but had no knowledge of English when she
arrived in Canada. She was a good public speaker. I recall her holding her own in political dis-
cussions. During the time of women’s suffrage in Manitoba, she joined Nellie McClung’s
movement, canvassing the countryside with a petition. Emma belonged to various organiza-
tions, including the United Farm Women of Manitoba and was the first president of the
Unitarian Ladies’ Aid. She was a very active worker in the latter and one of the founders of
the Federated Camp at Hnausa in the 1930s.
In 1966 Emma moved from her home in Gimli where she had lived after Hermann’s death
in 1953, to Hofn - the Icelandic home in Vancouver. She was involved in the numerous activ-
ities offered. She enjoyed playing cards, knitting, visiting and writing letters for those who
were no longer able to write. In July 1970, Emma decided to travel to Manitoba and hold a
coffee party in Gimli for her old friends. She prepared most of the baking. It was held at the
Falcon Cafe (her former restaurant) with more than 50 guests. A few days later she suffered a
stroke and she passed away in Winnipeg, August 4, 1970 at the age of 86.
That I admire her spirit is evident and I shall always be grateful for her positive influence
on my life.
984 Portage Avenue
at Aubrey St.
Ph: (204) 949-2200
Fax: (204) 783-5916
www.nbardal.mb.ca
Serving Winnipeg
& Rural Manitoba
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