Thursday, November 30, 0002
Dear George, Julia Ann, extended family and friends: It is with mixed emotions that I put my thoughts to writing this morning. I feel so blessed sitting here and thinking of all of the wonderful memories Of Mollie and all of the Funnell family over the years. It just seems like yesterday that I would see George being wheeled to school or being lifted out of the dark blue Impala wearing that (darn) red Canadians jersey. It was a real inspiration to see how Molly took a challenging situation and made it into a very educational experience. All the pieces of Mollie's lifes quilt fit together beautifully to benefit all who were touched by the Funnell Family. I truly believe that Mollie was "The Coach" in the Funnell family that orchestrated an amazing dynasty of Stanley Cup winning years for all of the Funnell family and friends she touched. Through her unselfish dedicated direction and leadership every season in life was filled with opportunities to truly become a winner. Your now in God's Hall of Fame! When you would knock on the door you were always greeted with a genuine " how are you ?". After interacting inside it wasn't long that you were being offered some tea or food of some sort. I can't remember a harsh word ever coming out of Mollie's lips. I also don't ever remember her ever being judgmental about people. She was a wonderful listener. Oh, how many nights were spent around the television watching sports and teasing one another over the various rivalries. I'm not really sure if Mollie was a sports fan before George's interest but she didn't have much chance to ever change the channel from sports. Many a Sunday afternoon were spent playing bridge at the Funnell's. You never knew what friends or family would show up at the drop-in center. The Sunday ( Toronto ) Star would be lying on the couch and the card table usually set up. The majority of those weekend get togethers would see Julia Ann being home from nursing at Hotel Dieu Hospital in Kingston and you became familiar with her various different cars parked beside the house over the years. She just weaved in and out of the scene until gravitating back to her roots in retirement. I'm not sure but your nursing career was somehow inspired by your Mother and her care for George in his early years. Mollie's love and dedication to St. John's Church gave her the strength to face every days challenges. She always had a smile on her face, and I know she focused on her faith and counted her many blessings. It is only fitting that she would want her tributes dedicated to the church rebuilding fund. I feel so glad that on my last visit to Gananoque three years ago that my son and wife were able to see the special simplicity to my upbringing in Gananoque and the very special family that has inspired me to this day. May God continue to bless this family at this time. I know Mollie is bringing joy to Heaven and is now back at the side of George Sr. God Loves You and so do we. We'll miss you Mollie but you truly were like Debbie Reynolds in living "The Unsinkable Mollie Funnell." I wish I was there right now to celebrate a great Life! Russ Hansen 1321 Denise Ct. Brea, CA. 92821
