Anita Marie Baird

It is with heavy hearts that we must announce the passing of our dear mother, Anita Baird.

Known to many in Drayton Valley as “Mum” or “Ma” or “Grandma”; Anita died as she lived: quietly and with dignity on Sunday, February 12, 2023, in the Drayton Valley Hospital at the age of 88 years.

Anita left behind two sons; Dale and Larry (Lucas) and one daughter, Sandy (Dave), and son-in-law, Kevin (Karin).

Also mourning her loss are three granddaughters; Trish (Robin), Kaylene (Matt), and Tracy, six great grandchildren (biological), and another three by marriage; her brother, Gary and his wife, Janet, who was like a sister along with many cousins, nieces and nephews and friends and extended family.

She was predeceased by her husband, Ronald, son Lonnie and daughter, Laurie.

Anita began life in Castor, Alberta, where she was raised, schooled, played in a dance band, worked in a bank, met Dad, and is remembered by many to this day.  After they were married, Mum and Dad and their growing family lived in Calgary, Vulcan, Morrin, Hay Lakes, Riley, Cessford Camp and finally Drayton Valley.

Mum was always happiest just being a wife and a Mum.  The family was always her priority and we always felt it.

Music was also a big part of her life.  We were raised with the radio always playing; usually country music on CFCW and whenever family or friends came for the weekend, the piano would spring to life with her magic touch and everyone would stand around her, singing into the wee hours.

The music was especially bright on Christmas Eve and those gatherings were almost legendary.

In the past few years, Mum knew that her brain and body were beginning to fail her, but was determined to live in her own home as long as she could, which she did right up until last May when a fall landed her in Hospital. This led to a brief stay at Points West Living where she continued to be able to cheer on the Blue Jays in the comfort of her own room.

Before the dementia and arthritic pain became overpowering, Mum had made us promise that we would not be sad when she finally went. She would be out of pain and looking forward to being with Dad and Laurie and Lonnie, her first son whom she had never gotten to know in this life, and of course her own parents and sainted Grandma Tucker.

God, Jesus and Mary, please take care of our Mum and don’t get too mad if the piano and singing and laughter keep everybody up a little late.

Cremation has taken place and a service will be held in Castor on a nice sunny day sometime this spring or summer.

Arrangements in care of Faith Van Manen and Mike McCrae 780 673-1688.