Muriel Clara Wilson was born to Clara and Ken Kerr in Millet, Alberta in 1929. Muriel grew up surrounded by eight brothers and sisters and had the privilege of working in her father's Cockshutt machinery shop and driving tractors and other large pieces of machinery.
A few years after graduating from school, Muriel applied to work in Woodward's general office in Edmonton. With her experience at her father's business, she was able to rise to the position of assistant to the general manager. While working at Woodward's, Muriel was a part of the curling team and was known to be one of the best players. She was even able to beat the boys.
Muriel met her husband George Wilson while working at Woodward's, as he was a fellow staff member. As they worked together, they got to know each other and found that they had many similar interests. They married on July 29, 1961. After their marriage, Muriel was forced to leave her job at Woodward's because of company policy. The couple bought a house in Edmonton and shortly after bought the McConnell farm, better known as Sandy Lane Farm, southeast of Millet. While living on the farm, George and Muriel bred and sold pure-bred cattle.
Muriel was involved with several organizations including the Eastern Star, the United Church Women, and helped in the formation of The Millet and District Historical Society in 1976. When the Historical Society had their first meeting in 1976, their plan was to write a book that explored the history of Millet and then open a museum. Muriel was a part of the book committee and came up with the title for the book, Tales and Trails of Millet. Muriel held many distinct roles in the Historical Society. She served as President in 1981 and again from 1992 to 1994. She served as Vice President from 1985 to 1986 and again in 1989 and served as treasurer in 1995. Along with these large roles, Muriel also was a part of many committees, including the Museum Committee, the Manor Committee, the Acquisition Committee, and the Finance Committee.
Muriel had seen a need for a skating rink in Millet and wanted to bring one to the community. This led to the formation of a group now known as The Agricultural Society. The Agriculture Society would put on many events in the community, Muriel's favourite being the Bench Show. This was an event where individuals could bring their baking, canning, handicrafts, and other produce to be judged with prizes awarded for the best in each category.
When Muriel and George were not busy with social activities, the Wilsons enjoyed travelling the world. Some of the places they visited include Russia, England, Germany, Wales, China, Australia, New Zealand, and Finland. Their favourite place to visit was New Zealand, which they visited more than ten times. In 2013 they sold their farm and moved into Sunrise Village in Wetaskiwin. George passed away on January 27, 2015. Muriel was moved to the Rosehaven Care Centre in Camrose in June 2020. On May 19, five days before her 93rd birthday, Muriel passed away, now joining George on their eternal travels.
A Funeral Service for Muriel will take place at Immanuel Anglican Church in Wetaskiwin, on June 18, at 1:00 P.M. with interment to follow at the Millet Community Cemetery.
Many thanks to The Millet and District Historical Society who provided much of the information about Muriel.
Honoured to Serve the Wilson Family
Baker Funeral Chapel, Wetaskiwin
780.352.2501 Or 888.752.2501
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