Gwen Griffin from Thunder Bay, Ontario, died on September 3, 2026, at the age of 80. We are really grateful to the staff at Hogarth Riverview Manor for providing such wonderful care for our mom and granny. She was also lucky to have had exceptional care from Dr. R. C. Allison for many years.
Gwen was born prematurely on July 2, 1946, in Orillia, Ontario, to Thomas and Laurie Griffin. Weighing just over 3 pounds at birth, she showed her fighting spirit right from the beginning.
Gwen was loved deeply by her parents and grandparents. As the oldest of four siblings, she cherished time spent with her younger brothers and sisters. Mom had a special bond with her youngest sister Lauretta, who included her in daily life as well as special events. Family and friends were at the heart of Gwen’s world.
She is survived by her sisters Cheryl (Guy) Mc Connell and Lauretta (Steve) Wright and was predeceased by her brother Gary (Beth) Griffin. Her nieces and nephews will also keep her memory alive.
During her career, Gwen held various secretarial and administrative support roles including positions with Air Ambulance and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Emerald Ash Borer Program. Later on, she worked as a court reporter.
A true “people person,” she always went out of her way to help others and showed genuine interest in those around her. Hosting Tupperware and Pampered Chef parties at home was something she loved; bringing people together made her happy.
Gwen actively participated in community groups like St. Michael’s and All Angels Anglican Church, Girl Guides, and 4-H. While living in Slate River, she led projects that raised awareness about local agricultural organizations.
Food played a significant role in Gwen’s life. An enthusiastic canner and preserver, there were always pickled beets, strawberry jam or frozen peas ready to enjoy at home. She would whip up delicious blueberry pies or strawberry-rhubarb desserts along with a fantastic apple crisp recipe learned from her mother-in-law Olga Zerabny.
In addition to cooking, Gwen enjoyed playing cards, watching hockey games, baking treats, thrifting for treasures and hitting yard sales for great finds. Her adventurous spirit took her traveling across Canada and the U. S., plus trips to Mexico, the Caribbean, Costa Rica, England and Japan.
Her warmth and friendly nature helped her make many friends throughout the years. She will be fondly remembered by her children Jonathon Zerabny, Catherine (Cory) Norman, Becky (Mike) Krawchuk, and Nancy (Michäel Lefebvre) Zerabny; along with grandchildren Alexa Norman, Liam, Krawchuk, Nate Krawchuk Justin Krawchuk, and Hunter Zerabny.
Rest in peace Mom-we love you so much.
Gwen will be cremated and laid to rest alongside her parents in Orillia Ontario Arrangements have been entrusted to Sargent & Son Funeral Chapel.
