Obituary of Violet Freeman

Freeman: Violet Maude Peacefully, at Leacock Care Centre in Orillia on Tuesday, November 29th, 2011 in her 91st year. Much loved mother of Patricia Freeman of Orilla and Terry Freeman (Lynn) of Oro Medonte. Loving grandmother of Tammy Lafontaine, Danny Freeman and great-grandmother of Jessica White. Dear sister of Maureen West (Donald) of Niagara Falls. While working at Eaton's in Toronto at age 21, she met her husband and moved to Goderich in 1942 where they had their 2 children. She worked at several jobs including instructing new pilots in the use of flight simulators. After becoming a single mother, Maude and her children moved to Niagara Falls. In the 50's, Maude moved to Orillia to work at The Sarjeant Co. Ltd. Her employer allowed Maude to bring her mentally-challenged daughter to work with her as daycare for special needs children did not exist. Maude realized there was a need for this specialized care and began a school that taught life skills for challenged children. The first school started in a room at the YMCA. Later with the help of community services, they moved to a building that was named the William B.Wright Memorial School. By 1963, the government began funding for these classes. Maude moved on to purchase a farm where she housed 8 girls from the Mental Health Centre. Maude, along with other volunteers and assistance from the Barrie Association, founded the ARC Industries Workshop. Maude remained active for about 20 years, serving on the board of directors for the Ontario Association for Community Living for 5 years. In 1979, a group known as Parents & Friends Supporting Orillia and District Developmentally Challenged Persons, honoured Maude for her part in the founding of services for the developmentally challenged in Orillia and District. Maude was President of the Simcoe East District Atherley Branch - Orillia Women's Institute from 1983 to 1986. The Parents and Friends Association cited Maude with opening the door for services that are still in place to this day. In 2011, Maude received an award for "Making a Difference" from Leacock Care Centre and Jarlette Health Services. This award was for noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding contributions to society and community. Private family service. Memorial donations to the Charity of Your Choice would be appreciated by the family. Messages of condolences are welcomed at www.simcoe funeralhome.ca.