Goldene (Goldie McGrath) Tremblay

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of the most beautiful and caring souls. Goldie was a kind and loving mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, wife and friend, only 68 years young.

Goldene Nora Anne (Goldie) was born in LeRoy, Saskatchewan to Gerald & Bea McGrath. She was the sixth child – right in the middle of the pack – a space where she always felt most comfortable. She grew up on the family farm with seven brothers and three sisters and quickly acquired the skillset to talk and walk fast, all at the same time! Goldie was a bright and cheery child who was very easy to care for, truly a parent’s dream. Early on her patient nature and keen sense of observation helped her capably land where she could be of most assistance to this big family – and it wasn’t in the barn doing chores! Mom wholeheartedly welcomed her help with the household management and supporting care for her siblings, nieces and nephews. Goldie attended LeRoy School where she was a stellar student, developed lifelong friendships and took part in many school sports as well as figure skating. Upon completing her Grade 12 she moved to Saskatoon where she graduated with her Medical Laboratory Technologist diploma from Kelsey Institute. Her career spanned 43 years, taking her from Chemistry in the Medical Arts Lab to the Saskatoon Manager of Lab Information Systems for the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Goldie retired in 2020 to allow more time for her family and travelling.

Throughout her career, Goldie was highly respected by all as evidenced by the many messages we received from colleagues:

“She was an excellent mentor; special, energetic and kind; she encouraged and coached; she will be remembered for her expertise and dedication to serving her profession and patients’ best interests; she tackled challenges with grace and optimism; she was the best at giving hugs on the hard days, always finding solutions to the system and not blaming the person; she was always positive and patient; a real treasure.”

Goldie met and married Daniel Tremblay in 1978. They made their home in Saskatoon. Their union was blessed with two beautiful children – a son, Patric (1984) and a daughter, Jennifer (1987).

Goldie and Daniel dedicated their time to support their children’s many athletic and creative endeavours. Goldie became the manager for Jennifer’s soccer team and was also there cheering on Patric at his hockey and soccer games over the years. She always encouraged healthy outlets like sports, nutritious eating and good moral values, with her many one liners such as: “Treat others how you would like to be treated”. She modeled kindness and respect in her words and actions.

The family enjoyed many trips, exploring Canada and beyond. A special road trip they took with the kids took them East to visit Daniel’s family and to see Canada’s east coast. Other favourite annual trips to Barrier Lake with her extended family and going to LeRoy for Christmas. As Jennifer got older, Goldie accompanied her on mother/daughter trips to Paris, Berlin, Cinque Terre, and San Francisco. These trips were inspired by her own cherished mother/daughter trips with her mother and sisters over the years.

After retirement Goldie enjoyed even more travel with Daniel. They sold their family home, bought an RV and lived life on the road. They split their time between Saskatchewan, Arizona, BC & various places in Mexico. They spent much time in Arizona where Goldie excelled at water volleyball and enjoyed many group hikes, furthering her love for walking and being out in nature.

Goldie’s pride in her children never wavered, and she was elated to hear when Patric and his wife Kristen were moving their young family to Armstrong, BC. Her grandchildren Sebastien (2017), Beau (2019) and newest addition Milo (2025) quickly became her biggest joy and light. She enjoyed every precious moment with those boys. She enjoyed baking delicious, healthy muffins and pancakes for Seb and Beau. She loved picking them up from daycare and walking them home and having them over at their RV to read books. Goldie had hoped that one day she and Daniel would settle in Armstrong to be closer to the grandkids. She didn’t quite get there, but it brought her ease when Jennifer shared this year that she would be moving to Vernon, near Armstrong. Grandma Goldie was truly blessed to get to meet her newest grandson Milo at only 9 days old. Some might say, he made sure he was here early so that he could meet her in person.

In May of 2024, Goldie was diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer) which started a year long journey of transformation from being a caregiver for others to learning and practicing selfcare. She stepped up to every challenge by surrounding herself with a loving and caring team of family and friends to provide positive energy and support while praying for the best outcome possible. She faced each day with optimistic hope as she focused on finding her joy and practicing gratitude for her many blessings – no matter how big or small. Goldie fought with determination and grace, inspiring everyone around with her tenacious spirit. We watched in awe of her strength and courage, and we are so overwhelmingly proud of her.

Goldie was lovingly and compassionately cared for by an amazing medical oncology team at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre led by Dr. Shahid Ahmed and nurse Tracey. We cannot thank them enough for their devotion to providing exceptional patient care. The loving care she received from family and her medical team together with her strong faith in God’s plan always gave her an enduring sense of safety and peace.

There are no words to adequately describe the gratitude we feel for all the support offered for Goldie over this past year. All your prayers, Reiki, positive energy, messages, calls and visits are appreciated beyond measure.

Goldie leaves to treasure her memory: her daughter Jennifer Tremblay; her son Patric (Kristen), grandsons Sebastien, Beau and Milo Tremblay; her husband, Daniel Tremblay. Her McGrath siblings: Jerry (Darlene); Terry (Janet); Darlene; Ervin (Joyce); Arlee (Shirley); Leslie (Ivy); Judy (Tim Archer); Neill; Jackie (Sheldon Holfeld); Brent; numerous nieces, nephews; great-nieces, great-nephews; numerous friends and colleagues.

Goldie was welcomed home to Heaven by her parents Gerald & Bea McGrath; her nephew Derek McGrath; and numerous extended family members.

We invite you to join us at Goldie’s Celebration of Life on Friday, July 11th at 10:30a.m. at Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park (Wedding Garden area).

MEMORIAL DONATIONS: in lieu of flowers

We are heartbroken by the loss of Goldie and are determined to honor her memory by helping others fight cancer. Please choose one of the following or any other cancer charity of your choice – in honor of Goldie. Thank you!

Saskatoon Cancer Centre:

https://cancerfoundationsask.ca

The Canadian Cholangiocarcinoma Collaborative (C3):

https://www.cholangio.ca/