December 15, 1934 – November 29, 2025
Mae Lyle passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 29, after a long and full life. Born on December 15, 1934, in Winnipeg to Alma and Norman Brown, Mae was the third of five children. She grew up on the family farm near Union Point, attending school there and forming the strong work ethic and warm spirit that would stay with her throughout her life.
Following graduation, Mae moved to Winnipeg to attend Success College, where she trained as a secretary. While in college, she met the love of her life, Bruce, at a social event. Their connection was immediate, and they married on March 3, 1956, beginning a partnership built on deep affection, shared values, and an abiding sense of adventure.
In 1962, Mae and Bruce settled in Winnipeg, building a home on Danbury Bay. It was during these years that Mae discovered her passion for antique furniture. Nothing delighted her more than finding a worn, neglected “treasure,” and with patience and skill, restoring it to beauty. By the time she finished refinishing a piece, the transformation was remarkable—her craftsmanship and eye for detail were second to none.
In 1976, the family moved to Carman for Bruce’s work. They built a home on the west end of town, and just five years later, realized their dream of building a country home a few miles northeast of Carman. The house and surrounding garden became Mae’s pride and joy. She had an extraordinary talent for home décor, seamlessly incorporating her beloved antiques. Her gardens were always vibrant, filled with colour and life. She loved planting, weeding, and harvesting, and Bruce happily moved perennials as often as her imagination demanded.
While living on the farm, Mae and Bruce began selling pies and preserves at the local Farmers Market. At times they baked up to 80 pies in a single stretch—an impressive testament to their commitment and teamwork. They were social by nature and enjoyed many activities together, especially square dancing and bridge. Mae was also active in Eastern Star and dedicated much of her time to volunteer work, particularly after her retirement from Boyne Lodge, where she had worked as an activity worker.
Mae loved to entertain and was a wonderful cook. She and Bruce welcomed many friends and relatives to the farm over the years, filling their home with laughter, food, and warmth.
Bruce’s sudden passing 21 years ago, at the age of 70, was a devastating loss. Mae’s heart was broken, and life changed profoundly. Unable to stay on the farm alone, she sold it and moved to a condo in Carman. She continued to see friends and family and remained part of a lunch group, but many of the activities that once brought her joy gradually faded from her life.
Mae is survived by her sisters, Norma Scott and Edna Dreger; her sons Dale (Rhonda) and grandchildren Benjamin and Travis (Elise); Edwin (late wife Mary-Anne) and Kevin (Tayne); grandchildren Foster (Ainsley), Delaney (Matthew) and great-grandchildren Huxley, Roux, and Tali; and Shea (Danielle), Redford (Laney), and Cullen. She is also remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
Mom, you lived a full and beautiful life. You were loved deeply, and you will be missed always.
Donations in Mae’s memory can be made to the Boyne Lodge Campus Charity.