Minnie was born in Wistaria on August 29, 1927 to Jim and Bella Nelson. She had a younger brother Jim.
Minnie grew up on the farm at Wistaria. She went to school in a little one room school house on the shores of Ootsa Lake, which is now under water after the flooding of Alcan.
Jim and Minnie walked or took the horses to school which was about two - three miles from home.
Minnie later moved to the farm beside her family farm. Minnie married Gordon McGinnis and they continued living at Wistaria where their children Doug and Colleen were raised.
Minnie loved the farm life and always had a variety of animals around the farm, which usually turned out to be just pets. Minnie loved the community of Wistaria, which to her was the only place to call home.
Minnie’s other joy in life was her grandchildren. She taught them to love the farm. She was very close to them and they to her.
In the fall of 1999 Minnie stayed part time with her daughter in Fort Fraser due to health problems. In 2001 she moved into Carrol Cottage so she could be half way between her family. She enjoyed her neighbours but couldn’t get use to town living. She wanted to be back on the farm.
Minnie passed away November 22, 2004 after two weeks in the hospital. There was no memorial by request. A small family gathering in the summer is planned.
Minnie was a loving and caring person who loved to help others. She had many friends and relatives all around and she will miss them greatly, like all of us will miss her.
Minnie is survived by her son Doug (Shannon), daughter Colleen (Harold), grandchildren Jennifer Delong, Mathew McGinnis, Ryan McGinnis and relatives.
Minnie was predeceased by her parents Jim and Bella Nelson, her husband Gordon McGinnis, and her brother Jim Nelson Jr.
In memory of Minnie donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.