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.
I have always thought of Aunt Marny as one of the strongest people I ever had the pleasure to know. Between that and her wit I would never mess with her the way I would with her sister and my nana, Mary-Anne.
You will be missed but never forgotten Marny, we love you.