Margaret “Marny” Bimm (nee Shipley) passed away peacefully on February 18, 2024 with her family by her side. Born in Kirkland Lake, Ontario, Marny was the beloved daughter of Dr. Manley and Ann Shipley. She was predeceased by her loving husband Harold (1989) and son Mark (2019) as well as her siblings Mary Ann Jackson and George Shipley. Marny leaves behind a legacy of compassion and friendship. As a devoted mother to Gretchen Bimm and Valerie Barnby (Don), her nurturing spirit extended to her granddaughter Anna Bimm. Marny also leaves behind her dear sisters-in-law Shirley Shipley and Beverly Bimm. Her warmth and kindness touched the lives of many including her nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Marny discovered her passion for nursing after attending college for x-ray-technology in 1953 and later graduating from the Victoria Hospital-School of Nursing in London, Ontario in 1956. She formed lifelong bonds with fellow nurses Johann Hartford and Nancy Kinzie. Her adventurous spirit led her to California, where she began her nursing journey before returning to Kirland Lake where she met Harold. Their shared love for the outdoors and collaborative projects brought them together, leading to a loving marriage and the joy of raising three children in Ottawa.
The family enjoyed countless cherished memories at their cottage on Little Silver Lake outside of Perth, Ontario. Marny’s dedication to maintaining the cottage, even after Harold’s passing, exemplified her resiliency. She had a wide range of interests from golf and bridge to reading, knitting, and travel. However, it was her passion for gardening that truly defined her. Marny’s green thumb and nurturing spirit brought joy to those around her as she generously shared her love of gardening with friends, family and neighbors.
Marny’s love for animals, particularly dogs, was evident throughout her life. Whether they were well-behaved or mischievous, Marny cherished each furry companion equally. Her sense of humor, positive outlook, and unwavering love for her family will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff at the Ottawa Civic Hospital and Bridlewood Trails Retirement Community for their compassion and care. A private service will be held. A reception will be held for family and friends on Saturday, April 27, 2024 from 11:00 to 1:00PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Ottawa Humane Society or the Ottawa Mission or a charity of your choice.
Marny will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who were touched by her kindness and grace.
Digital Guestbook
Bill Shipley and Carole Sherman
Bill and Carole Shipley
Our hearts are full of sadness at the passing of Marny. She was a wonderful woman. May she rest in peace.
Adair and Ross Heuchan
Such a beautiful tribute to our dear Aunt Marny. We will miss her delightful, wry sense of humour and her joy in life particularly family, friendship, food,
bridge and gardening. Marny was curious about everything and everyone. A conversation with her
was always a treat. Adair
Hope Sorokowski
So so sorry for your loss Valerie..
Sharon Jackson
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful woman!
I will dearly miss Marny's sense of humour and love of life.
With love and deepest sympathy to Gretchen, Valerie and Anna. . .
Shari
Jess and Trent Pringle
Aunt Marny's life was a beautiful garden, and we were all flowers nurtured by her love, humor, and creativity. She had a way of making everyone around her bloom with happiness. Her laughter was contagious, her spirit was vibrant, and her love for us was boundless. As we say goodbye, we hold tight to the countless memories that will forever keep her close. Aunt Marny, thank you for every moment, every lesson, and every smile. Your legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone you touched.
Bev MacKillop
I am so sorry to hear about your mom’s passing Val and Gretch. You are in my prayers at this very difficult time.
Eric Chamberland
Martine and I would like to offer you and your family our most sincere condolences. May she rest in peace and may the memory of her love bring you happiness once the pain of her loss diminishes.
david and anita bimm
Gretch and Val stay strong memories last forever david
Ann (Hartford) and Geoff Marshall
Thinking of you , Gretchen and Val, at this difficult time. I have lots of memories of my mom and Aunt Marny in Kirkland Lake and at the cottage.
Lots of love,
Ann and Geoff
Gretch and Val, you have captured Marny's legacy perfectly with these words. I will always remember the fun times skiing and my many fishing visits to Little Silver.