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Mary Lou – glamorous model, consummate business woman, horsewoman extraordinaire, servant’s heart. This beautiful soul passed away on October 21, 2017 at Hillcrest Place, her last residence, where she made many friends and the staff were more like family. Mary Lou was born on February 18, 1933 in Junor, SK and grew up on the family farm. This is where her love of animals began and continued until the day of her passing. Mary Lou also enjoyed the bright lights. The bright lights of Toronto that is, where she pursued a modelling career having attended the Walter Thornton of Canada Ltd. School of Personal Development and Modeling receiving highest honours. Moving back to Brandon to be with family, Mary Lou met the love of her life Joseph Michalyshen while working part-time at his flower shop Daffodil Florists. The two enjoyed a long, happy life together combining their two loves, their love of horses and their love of serving others. Mary Lou and her husband showed and bred registered percheron horses. They were well received and respected in fairs across Canada and the United States. Many of their registered stock went on to become champions. During this time Mary Lou and Joe also owned and operated the Velvet Dip until Joe’s passing. People would come from far and wide to enjoy their delicious ice cream, a Chiquita banana and a smile. Mary Lou loved putting a smile on customer’s faces at the Velvet Dip, especially the children. It was her passion. Mary Lou’s faith was also very important to her and she never missed a mass on Sunday morning or an opportunity to bless someone whether with help cleaning, baking or just spending time with them. Mary Lou was a faithful member of St. Augustine’s Parish. She also belonged to the UCT, the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba and many other valued organizations. Mary Lou, your love will live on in the memory of our hearts. You will be sadly missed! Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, October 31, 2017. with Rev. Fr. Kelly Wilson as Celebrant. Interment followed at the Brandon Cemetery. Donations in memory of Mary Lou may be made to a charity of choice. The family would also like to extend their deepest gratitude to Memories Chapel, St. Augustine’s Parish as well as Hillcrest Place for the compassion and care shown to Mary Lou and our family during this time, and also to the pallbearers who graciously carried her to her resting place.