1971
2016
Ahrens, Marion (Vice Principal of David Suzuki Public School, Markham)
Passed away suddenly at her home in Richmond Hill, Ontario on Friday March 4, 2016 in her 45th year. Marion is the beloved daughter of Anngret and is the cherished sister to Maik and his wife Maria of Aurora, Ontario. Marion will be fondly remembered by her many friends in the educational profession. A Memorial Service will be hosted by the York Region District School Board on Thursday March 31, 2016 at Richmond Green Secondary School, 1 William F. Bell Parkway, Richmond Hill at 5pm We will be formally honoring Marion from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m., after which guests are welcome to stay and share memories informally with one another. Donations to the Stephen Lewis Foundation, 260 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON. M5T 2E4 http://www.stephenlewisfoundation.org/arts-fund/support-the-fund would be greatly appreciated by the family. On-line condolences may be left at www.thompsonfh-aurora.com.
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90 Entries
April 8, 2016
Judith A. Stanley
Marion was my lovely neighbor on Elizabeth Street and I always admired her ambition and obviously loving nature. She will be sorely missed.
Judith A. Stanley
April 4, 2016
Lee Perry
I was very lucky to meet Marion and work with her at UMPS. She will be missed dearly. I will never forgot her beautiful smile and the joy she brought to all of our lives. Thank you for all your support!
April 1, 2016
Tammy Campbell
What a joy to have the pleasure to know, laugh, smile & share with Marion! Her leadership & passion with Tribes training was contagious, exciting & so inspiring! Thanks for sharing your sunshine!!
March 31, 2016
Jacquie Othen
I was shocked and saddened to hear the news of Marion's passing. I can't think of another soul in my life who is as vibrant and positive and sweet as Marion is. You are gone too soon and have left many a broken heart behind. I will deeply miss you.
March 31, 2016
Sharon Gilmore
Marion we love and you have changed and affect so many people in a positive way. You have truly done your job on this earth! Your smile will live on in so many students and friends. Thanks you for all you have contributed to this world! May God continue to bless your family.
Sharon Gilmore (Thornhill, ON)
March 28, 2016
My family was fortunate enough to have Marion teach our four children at HG Bernard PS. She was an amazing teacher with a soul filled with kindness, warmth and love. You will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with her family.
Darlene Croucher
March 28, 2016
Laurian Halliday
The world lost an incredible lady. I will miss our daily conversations, her smile and her joyful laugh. The staff and students of David Suzuki PS will be forever changed for the better having had her in our lives. My deepest condolences to Marion's family.
March 27, 2016
B. A
Such an amazing teacher and kindhearted woman.
March 23, 2016
Chloe Short
As a school parent, I was lucky enough to see Marion regularly while she was VP at UMPS, and her amazing warmth and kindness always shone through. Teachers and parents loved Marion because of her sunny, empathetic nature and her willingness to go the extra mile for the school. But what I will remember most is how the students loved her, and this is because they understood that she truly cared about them, that she truly wanted to support them, that she truly had their best interests at heart. Marion possessed a true vocation as an educator, and a real desire to help children achieve success in their lives. Hopefully her family can find comfort in knowing that she had such a positive impact on so many young lives. She was a very special person and she will be sadly missed.
March 22, 2016
Judy Speirs
My deepest sympathy to Marion's family, her colleagues and students.
March 21, 2016
Maytham Jivraj
I am really sad to hear this news. Marion was an amazing teacher in Grade 3 at HG Bernard Public School. She would always have that big smile of hers and make everyone laugh in the room as well. She is will never be forgotten. She will always have a place in my heart.
March 21, 2016
Cynthia Sneath
Marian had the most brilliant smile! Her positivity and love of life were contagious. She touched many lives as a teacher and mentor, and will be greatly missed. C. Sneath
March 18, 2016
Anna Ju
Marion was not only my mentor and teacher, but she was a sister to me in Christ. I believe strongly that God connected me to Marion to be where I am today in my teaching career. I am forever grateful for all her teaching, mentoring, help and support in my life. May God be with you and comfort and strengthen your family during this difficult time. "He will cover you with his feathers and under his wings you will find rest." Psalm 91:4
March 14, 2016
Hazel England Franks
I met Marion at Doncrest PS. I was a landed immigrant and the angels were looking after me when I met Marion. Marion, your creativity, passion for teaching and warm smile inspired me every day. I will miss you. Sincere sympathies to the Ahrens family.RIP
March 13, 2016
I am really saddened to hear of Marion's passing. Her love of teaching, her commitment to learning with colleagues and her dedicated service to students will be remembered. We'll miss her beautiful smile as well. My sincere condolences go out to her family and her close friends.
Beate Planche (Superintendent (Retired) YRDSB)
March 11, 2016
Jessica Riesz
Marion's smile always lit up a room and she had a heart of gold. I will miss her bubbly personality and passion for teaching. I will think of her often as I continue my teaching journey and remember everything she taught me. She will be greatly missed by the teachers, students,and families whose lives she touched. My deepest condolences go out to her family.
March 11, 2016
Gary Miner
Maik and Maria, my deepest sympathies for the your loss of your sister. Unbelievable and I am sure no words stop the sadness, I will see you are the service on March 31 and show my support. Sincerely : Gary Miner (YRP)
March 11, 2016
Faculty of Education, Tyndale University College
Marion Ahrens was an exceptional educator. Her sessions with the teacher candidates were creative and informative. She was known for her commitment to the classroom. She loved being a part of Tyndale's Bachelor of Education program. We are saddened by her loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Ahrens family.
March 10, 2016
Pat Dixon
Marion and I first met through the auspices of Joanne Myers in regard to ETFO Summer Academy. Marion - the Tribes expert - me, the summer manager. Many phone and email conversations culminated in a face to face meeting and our mutual admiration society was created. Marion's absolute attention to detail, professionalism, knowledge, desire to learn and educate were all enhanced by her infectious laughter, wicked sense of humour and love of learning. The education profession was enhanced by Marion, teachers were inspired by Marion, but friends were blessed by having known and loved her. I will miss you, Marion.
March 10, 2016
Maureen Hastings - David Suzuki PS
I only knew Marion for a short time here at David Suzuki and within this short time I was able to see how much of an amazing women Marion was. Every day she gave so much love, joy and laughter to everyone she was in touch with. Her smile and laughter was infectious. She had a heart of gold and was a true treasure to be around. She was the kind of person that you were lucky to have met and be able to spend time with. I wish I was given more time get to know her better and to have her in my life. My sincere condolences to her family and friends
"Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow" - Robert Louis Stevenson
March 10, 2016
Urwah
Miss Ahrens always made me happy just by her amazing smile. To me, Miss Ahrens was the best Vice Principle that I ever had or ever will have. At UMPS, she always participated in sprit days and our fun activities. Since Miss Ahrens and I always smile, she had decided that she and I would have a smiling contest to see who smiles more. Till today, I still don't know who the winner is, but I bet she won. I know she is still smiling now looking down at us.
March 10, 2016
We will miss Marion's bubbly personality and warm smile. She was an amazing woman who inspired so many people both personally and professionally. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family at this difficult time.
Peter and Judy Szigeti
March 10, 2016
I knew her for a short while, but she made a huge impact right from the start. She had a wonderful sense of humor, infectious laugh and very evident love for her profession. She was inspiring, charismatic and an excellent example of what an administrator in an Elementary School should be. It is a great loss for the students; both for the ones who knew her and the ones who will not have the opportunity to know her.
My sincere condolences to her family, friends, coworkers and all those whose lives she touched. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have worked with her, if even for such a short time.
Dina Tsigaridis - David Suzuki PS
March 10, 2016
Heather Burton
As Marion's minister at Richmond Hill United Church from 2000 to 2005, I developed a warm relationship with her, always finding a ready smile and a bubbly personality, as well as an extremely gifted person. A great loss to all who knew her.
March 10, 2016
Sue McCully
Marion's smile will be remembered by everyone who knew her. She made such an impact both personally and professionally. My sincere condolences to her family and friends. She will be greatly missed.
March 9, 2016
C G
Marion was an inspiration to many. Her laughter and positive energy was infectious.
My sincerest condolences to Marion's family.
March 9, 2016
Fiona Birkness
Marion was an amazing, energetic, and caring teacher, friend, confidant and supporter. I will continue my teaching journey always remembering my friend and mentor and can only hope to impact as many teachers and students as I know Marion did. She is missed dearly already. I will think of her often as I know many will.
March 8, 2016
Nimet Saleh
She was my favorite teacher back in elementary school. She was always so full of life and I'll never forget her and how she played a role in making me who I am today.
March 8, 2016
J I
Marion's smile was welcoming, her positive outlook was infectious, her words were sincere, her humour was entertaining and her actions were both gentle and loving. Being around her made you want to be a better person.
So, in Marion's honour: smile (even though you may not feel like it), be sincere, kind, gentle and loving.
My sympathies to Marion's family and friends. May you find comfort knowing how many personal connections Marion's life has touched.
March 8, 2016
Lisa Tam
Ms. Ahrens had such warmth and such positive energy. Her smile and kindness will stay with us forever. Our sincere condolences to her family.
March 8, 2016
I have known Marion for a long time and going to miss her smile and laugh. Randy Payne
March 8, 2016
Jessica Primrose
You will be forever missed and never forgotten xo
March 8, 2016
Jessica Primrose
The world has truly lost a bright and beautiful person. In the two years that I was so fortunate to work with Marion, her smile, infectious laugh and genuine warmth filled our school with such positive energy. I will never forget seeing her dressed in a pink boa, happily greeting students in our bus loop, while music streamed from our school, she helped our days at UMPS begin with such joy! She is going to be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched. Sending my sincere condolences to her family and friends <3
March 8, 2016
Audrey Kwong
Mrs. Ahrens was one of the most positive people I met. I knew her for 3 years and she will be missed by her smile and happiness.
March 7, 2016
Natalie Wood
I can't think of a more kind-hearted, generous and loving person than my dear friend Marion. We became friends while teaching together at H.G. Bernard PS. over 18 years ago. Our mutual passion for the arts and teaching ignited the friendship which extended beyond that of colleagues. She made everyone around her feel special, unique and treasured. Knowing her and simply being in radiance is one of life's real treasures. My deepest condolences go out to her family. May she will always be with us in our most cherished memories.
March 7, 2016
Jennifer Tse
We've lost such a wonderful person but I will forever remember the moments I had with Marion. She always lit up the room, sharing her love and passion for education. Thank you for teaching me many things at UMPS and mentoring me through my teaching journey Marion. You truly are an inspiration. You've touched so many people's lives and will greatly be missed. I will always remember your beautiful smile especially your contagious laugh.
March 7, 2016
Falling in love with her was so easy, her kind heart, intuitive people skills and love of children. Losing her is so very hard. We will all cherish the time spent, the memories and the lessons that she taught. Being kind to one another is a great way to live life in her memory. Condolences to her family and friends, know that she touched so many people in such a positive way. Gail Koidis, David Suzuki PS
March 7, 2016
Emily Mallett
My sincerest condolences to Marion's family and friends. Her magnetic charm, her exuberant smile and her genuine interest in others were remarkable. Her legacy will live on through all those who were impacted by her teachings and by her example. Rest in Peace.
March 7, 2016
For the brief time i knew her, she inspired me to become a better teacher. My prayers are with her family and friends. May your memories of her be filled with happiness, joy and love, because that is who she was.
March 7, 2016
Daniela Palermo
My sincere sympathy goes out to Marion's family and friends. Her bright smile and infectious laughter will never be forgotten. Peace, Prayers and Blessings.
Daniela Palermo
March 7, 2016
Fatima Al Homedawy
I am so heartbroken by this news. Miss. Ahrens was a phenomenal teacher, not most importantly a friend. She will forever remembered. May she rest in peace. My condolences.
March 7, 2016
Jeewan Chanicka
Marion's smile and love radiated around her wherever she was. She had the remarkable ability to make everyone feel important, cared for and loved. Most importantly, you knew that it was sincere. She was an inspiration to so many. She cared deeply for children and was dedicated to inspire those around her to do their best to make the world a better place, one child at a time. Her sudden departure is a loss for us all but I take solace in knowing that while she was gifted to us, she made the world a better place through the way that she lived and loved those around her. Please accept our condolences to your family and know that we are all here to support you however we can.
March 7, 2016
Stephanie Dimitrievski
Marion was a wonderful Vice Principal at David Suzuki P.S. She was always smiling and took so much time and care for the students. Our children loved her very much and we will miss her waving to us every morning. The Dimitrievski Family (Anthony and Nikoletta)
March 7, 2016
Keron Tran
you will be missed and will be forever the best vice principal in All of York region boards and I am going to miss the smile that you have on your face otherwise you will be missed
March 7, 2016
My students have shared amazing stories of their memories of Ms Ahrens. Each story is filled with admiration for her positivity and an appreciation for how she could connect with each of them. Years later they can recall things like;
-being in trouble, but her not talking so much about that and instead showing off her new glasses that had high heels on the ends
-her dancing out front of the school on fun Fridays
-how she dressed up on Halloween
-that she remembered their names
-even making lice checks fun!
"Why do bad things happen to good people?" - a young boy
"Ms Ahrens was always smiling. She wouldn't want us to be sad right now."- a young girl
Marion was admired by young and old alike, and will be forever missed and remembered with fondness.
March 7, 2016
I can't even begin to describe the kind of person Marion Ahrens is. Without her I probably wouldn't be where I am today. She has influenced my life so greatly. You will be forever missed and loved <3 Thank you for being my teacher all those years ago.
March 7, 2016
Tracy MacRae
It is hard to imagine a world without Marion. Her artistic spirit, generous heart and warmth will be greatly missed. My condolences go out to her family and friends who will miss her greatly. I will never forget her beautiful smile.
March 7, 2016
Marion was a wonderful supporter of students and staff and will be greatly missed.
March 7, 2016
Melanie, Ruthanne and Ezra Chamberland Price
There really are no words to express how much Marion's loss will be felt by all of the teachers, students, and families whose lives she touched. Her smile lit up a room, and her patience and knowledge seemed endless. Our deepest condolences to the Ahrens family.
March 7, 2016
KIrsty K
Marion's course at Tyndale this past August was so inspiring. She had an art to teaching that was indescribable. I will remember her caring heart and amazing smile! She will be greatly missed.
March 7, 2016
Carli C
I had the pleasure of being in Marion's class in August at Tyndale university. I learned so much from her in those two weeks. She was an inspiration to my classmates and to my self. Her laugh and smile were contagious. She was the best teacher and mentor I have ever had. Condolences to the family. Rest peacefully.
March 7, 2016
Ms Ahrens was a wonderful person, always eager to help the students. I attended a few PTC meetings with her and found her to be responsive and caring. She will be missed.
March 7, 2016
Sarah F
Marion was a wonderful, kind-hearted, spirited woman who absolutely lit up the room with her smile and laugh! I am so honoured that I was able to know and learn from her at OISE. May her family be warmed by all the beautiful memories of her. She will be missed, but will always live on in the hearts of her students and colleagues!
March 7, 2016
Carol Rolheiser
There are individuals who bring joy and inspiration into the world. Marion was one of those individuals. I had the privilege of getting to know her during professional development activities within York Region District School Board, and later when we hired her for our teacher education program at OISE. Marion had a full-on commitment to her own learning, and a deep desire to create significant learning experiences for those who learned from her and with her. This beautiful soul will be dearly missed.
March 7, 2016
Xenia Tang
Marion's smile lit up the room and her dedication to all her students, student teachers and kids alike, were as clear as day and spurred you on to do your best. I am honored to have learned how to teach from her at OISE.
March 7, 2016
School parent
A couple of weeks ago at David Suzuki on a cold stormy snow day, Ms.Ahrens was outside helping the kids leave the school safely. i told her that no matter what kind of day it is she always has a huge smile on her face. She just laughed and said it is easy to smile because of the kids. She was such a kind and warm person.
March 7, 2016
Afnan Al-Soultani
She was my grade 7 teacher at H.G.Bernard P.S. One of few teachers that left a mark on my life. Such a beautiful woman. She will be missed. RIP Ms.Ahrens ♡
March 7, 2016
Meghan Donnan
Marion, Your smile and laughter brightened the hallways of our school. You were always so caring and adored by everyone. You will be forever missed. Rest Peacefully. Ox
March 7, 2016
It was a joy to work with Marion at Bernard.
It is a tragic loss to family, friends, and the teaching profession.
She was loved by all who had the pleasure of her company.
March 7, 2016
Vera Tosh
I worked with Marion at H.G. Bernard P.S. She had a big beautiful smile and a kind word for everyone. I feel blessed to have known her and will miss you.
March 7, 2016
Joyce T.
Marion is pure sunshine. It was impossible not to gravitate to someone so warm, kind and gracious. To the Ahrens family, may you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you. I will miss her too.
March 7, 2016
Diana Chu
Ms Ahrens' smile was infectious; her love and attention to all the students was evident. She will be greatly missed.
March 7, 2016
Melanie Martin
Condolences to her family. Marion's smile and laugh will surely be missed. Rest in peace.
March 7, 2016
Susan Blatchford
I had the pleasure of working with Marion over the past few months at David Suzuki. As a new employee, she made me feel welcomed and supported. She always had a big smile and caring eyes. The love she had for the children at school was evident. She will be greatly missed. My deepest condolences to her family.
March 7, 2016
Had the pleasure of meeting Marion at a charity function. She had such an amazing and positive energy. Condolences to her family. Lucia Pegoraro
March 6, 2016
Jan Davies
Marion was a gift to our world.
March 6, 2016
J Gogas
Her smile, warm, and energetic personality will never be forgotten. She was full of life and always had positive and uplifting words to say. She was an inspiration to many and has left a memorable mark in my life and in many others too. She will be greatly missed - my condolences to her family.
March 6, 2016
Wynne Chang
Marion was a friend, a teacher and a mentor. I will always carry her memory with me to every student I teach.
March 6, 2016
Her beautiful smile, kind heart and amazing laugh will be remembered by everyone who was lucky enough to know her. A very sad day. Lori D.
March 6, 2016
Anne Marie Chudleigh
Marion had a heart of gold, and I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to work with her at OISE for many years. Every fall Marion would involve her preservice teachers in beautiful community-building activities, often sharing lots about herself in the process. This photo was Marion's example of one of those activities - a Six-Word Memoir. It says so much about Marion, including her positivity and her giant smile! She was an exceptionally gifted teacher educator during her time at OISE, deeply committed to the development of new teachers and to their future students, and a joy to work with! I will miss her dearly. Sending love and a warm hug to you Marion! May you rest in peace. XO
March 6, 2016
Sayeda Datoo
Marion trained many teachers on the Tribes Philosophy of inclusion, respect and appreciation. Not only did she practice what she preached, but connected with people naturally. Her smile was contagious and her heart pushed her to make a difference in the world. She did so in the little time she had.
A great loss for YRDSB.
March 6, 2016
Cindy Rifle
To the Family and Friends of Marion, my deepest condolences. Her laughter, creativity, and inspiration will be missed by all. May treasured memories comfort you.
March 6, 2016
Joanne Frank
The world has lost a beautiful person, inside and out. May her legacy live on in all who knew and loved her. My sincere condolences to the Ahrens family. May you be granted the strength and courage you need during this difficult time. Rest in eternal peace my friend! xox
March 6, 2016
Stefanie Kreibe
Anngret, Maik and Maria, our deepest condolences on this devastating news. Marion will always be remembered and her friendship cherished by our family and many, many others.
Much love to you all, Gudrun and Volker Kreibe and family
March 6, 2016
Lisa Donohue
Marion was one of the brightest, shiniest stars that I have ever met. She was truly a beautiful person who radiated warmth and love. She will be greatly missed.
March 6, 2016
Cindy Aronson
Marion and I went to the Faculty of Ed together. We crossed paths teaching years ago at H.G. Bernard. She was a pleasure to work with! My condolences to her family.
March 6, 2016
Thank you Marion. You made a difference in so many lives, and in my life. Condolences to the Ahrens family. Rip Marion. You will be so missed.
March 6, 2016
barrie bennett
Marion was the owner of marvellous heart; one she shared with the world around her. I'll miss herall who knew her will miss her.
March 6, 2016
Devon Law
It was impossible not to feel good when Marion and her beautiful smile walked in to any room, any time. My thoughts go out to her family, and the many, many, friends and colleagues she has impacted in her lifetime.
March 6, 2016
Alice Te
I had the opportunity to work with and learn from Marion during her years at OISE/UT. She was an inspirational educator. My condolences go out to her family and friends.
Alice Te
March 6, 2016
Coretta Godden (Gunckel)
I was lucky enough to start my teaching career along side Marion. She was the shoulder you could cry on, the smile to cheer you up and a friend always. I have great memories to cherish from our time together personally and professionally. Such a loss to so many. My deepest condolences to her family.
March 6, 2016
Jennifer Fenwick
Marion was a breath of fresh air. Her beautiful smile and laugh was contagious! She will be missed greatly. RIP Marion!
March 6, 2016
E S
Marion was a beautiful soul. She had a smile that could brighten any room, and a laughter that could warm any heart. Words cannot express the loss we experienced. Marion is an angel that God called upon just a touch earlier than we had hoped. But the memories we have of her will continue to live on. Marion, thank you for being our friend and mentor. We hope you are singing and dancing and drinking all the Starbucks you want right now! Our prayer and condolences to her family for strength and wisdom in this time. Rest in peace, dearest Marion.
March 6, 2016
V. Lee
Marion was always there with a smile and full of happiness and laughter. May she always be remembered. My condolences go out to her family.
March 6, 2016
Charmaine Coote
I will always remember your beautiful smile..
March 6, 2016
Mari Sofos
Marion was a force to be reckoned with. Brilliant. Compassionate. A loyal friend and an inspirational educator. You will be fondly remembered my friend.
March 6, 2016
Anne Porretta
Marion was an embodiment of love and sunshine, and both radiated from her brilliant smile. She was a gift and a blessing to her students, colleagues and friends, touching more lives than even she could ever have known. Condolences to her family and all her many friends. Words cannot express our sadness at her untimely passing.
March 6, 2016
T McBee
Marion was truly an inspiring teacher and mentor. Her love and passion for education was a gift to everyone around her. RIP dear Marion.
March 6, 2016
Marilyn Pinchuk
Sincere condolences to the Ahrens family.
Rest in peace,Marion
March 6, 2016
Tracy Karkheck
Marion was inspiration for so many. Words can't speak how much she will be missed. Our condolences to her family RIP Marion, we love you dearly ❤
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