Ethel Blues

Ethel Blues was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, founding Pavilion volunteer, and remarkable woman whose warmth, independence, and pride in her Scottish heritage touched generations.

Born in Arbroath, Scotland, Ethel met John “Wee Johnny” Blues in her hometown. They married on March 18, 1948, and immigrated to Winnipeg in 1953, where they built a new life and raised their daughter, Wendy.

Ethel and Johnny became deeply involved in Winnipeg’s Scottish community. As a founding member of Folklorama’s Pavilion of Scotland, Ethel helped establish the traditions of fellowship, hospitality, and cultural pride that would shape the Pavilion for decades.

She was a devoted supporter of Wendy’s Highland dancing and her involvement with the Heather-Belle Ladies’ Pipe Band. In later years, that same encouragement extended to the sporting, musical, and personal accomplishments of her grandchildren, John, Zachary, and Tia.

Ethel was also an enthusiastic curler and enjoyed many happy summers with Johnny at their trailer at Lake Seven. Together, they travelled throughout Canada and the United States, with Hawaii holding a particularly special place in their memories.

At the age of 96, Ethel returned to Scotland with Wendy, Colin, and Tia to celebrate her sister May’s 90th birthday. The journey became a treasured final visit to the country and family she had carried in her heart throughout her life.

Ethel expressed her love through countless thoughtful acts. Many babies welcomed into her circle of family and friends were wrapped in blankets lovingly crocheted by her, while others fondly remember her cinnamon loaf and traditional Scottish tablet.

She followed golf, curling, and tennis with enthusiasm and remained active, vibrant, and fiercely independent until the final days of her life.

Ethel passed away peacefully at St. Boniface Hospital on December 11, 2017, at the age of 98.