FALL 2025 EDITION

Stories Of The Heart

A Life of Grace, Love and Muskoka Memories – as told by Don Graham

Mom grew up in the west end of Toronto, where she met my dad through their church’s young people’s group. They married when she was 21 and began their family soon after. Through every challenge, their unwavering support for one another never faltered. During our school years, Mom worked as a secretary—everyone knew she ran the office—and she was always there to lend a hand with Dad’s endless projects, give to her church, and keep her Canasta group of friends going strong for more than 45 years. 

Early in their marriage, my parents began visiting Bala, where my grandmother had bought a piece of property on the Moon River in 1933. They fell in love with Muskoka. I remember Mom lighting coal oil lamps, carrying buckets of water from the river, and making tea on the wood stove.

She loved having friends visit, dressing up for big band concerts at Dunn’s. Muskoka was in her blood. 

Later in life, as her health declined, Mom received wonderful care at IOOF Rebecca Home in Barrie, but when she needed more specialized support, we were able to bring her to Andy’s House in Port Carling. It felt like coming home. Her face lit up with every visit from staff and volunteers, whose compassion and warmth surrounded her—and us. On two beautiful October days, we were able to take her out to the balcony overlooking the fall colours and river. This was a very special moment during her week-long stay. When her time came, she passed through a candle lit hall with family and staff, “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” playing softly in the background. She was always gracious, loving, humble, kind, charming ‘til her final day at 99. 

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Words From The Heart

– Words from family members of former residents of Andy's House

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