Died peacefully on Monday, May 14, 2018 in her ninety-sixth year. Predeceased by her husband William Bates, parents Catherine McLeod and Benjamin Harrison, and niece Jane Harris Chadder. Beloved sister of Isobel Harris of Guelph and special aunt to Ruth Robinson (Ron), Ralph Harris (Antoinette) and Warren Harris (Mary Jo), great aunt to grand niece (Reta), six grand nephews (Ben, Jamie, Chris, Vincent, Neil and Liam) and seven great-grand nieces and nephews.
Maggie was an artist, educator, member of the Arts and Letters Club Toronto and an AGO docent. She lived and taught in North Toronto for several decades before making her home in Guelph at the Elliott Community. Maggie was never happier than when she was surrounded by nature especially at her cottage on Big Hawk Lake in the Haliburton Highlands, her back garden, or sketching at the side of a country road.
Special thanks to Colleen Alberts and Friends of the Family staff who provided her comfort and companionship during her stay in Guelph. Heartfelt thanks to Dr. Lee and the staff of the Wellington at the Elliott Community for their kind and compassionate care.
Cremation has taken place and a celebration of her life will take place later in May; contact [email protected] for more details. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Art Gallery of Ontario. Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 519-822-0051 or www.wallcustance.com.
A tree will be planted in memory of Margaret (Maggie) Bates in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest, University of Guelph Arboretum. Dedication service, Sunday, September 16, 2018 at 2:30 pm.