Mary Costigan
Mary Costigan, long time Banff local, passed away from natural causes at her residence in Origin at Spring Creek on Aug. 27, 2021 at the age of 99 years.
Mary’s life began in a farm house on March 10, 1922 in Cut Knife, Sask., a small prairie town known for being the home of The World’s Largest Tomahawk. She grew up on the farm and always chuckled when she talked about riding her favorite horse to the one room school house - a 20 mile ride - uphill both ways!
In the 30’s, polio was prevalent and unfortunately Mary contracted the disease which affected both her right arm and leg. Her polio was severe enough that she had to leave her family and spend her last year of High School in Regina, living in an Infirmary. She regained her health and went on to study and graduate as a Registered Nurse from the Saskatoon City Hospital. The spirit of adventure caught Mary and she arrived by train in Banff to work at the Old Banff Hospital, moving into the Gingerbread House Residence. From the stories we were told, these were wonderful times, meeting lifelong treasured fiends, nursing in Banff and having many amazing experiences living in the Rocky Mountains. Mary fell in love and married the very handsome Dr. Pat Costigan and together they raised three children in the family home on Buffalo St., Norman, Peggy and Gerald. Tragically, Pat passed away at the age of 56 leaving Mary widowed at the young age of 50.
Mary filled her life with family, friends, volunteering with ladies groups which she was very proud to be a member of, art classes in Canmore, singing in the choir, golfing, skiing, entertaining and being involved in the Banff community. Treasured summers were spent at the family cabin on Lake Windermere. The lucky grandchildren were a big part of these fun family times.
Mary was a genuine listener - always ready to help in any way she could. She was beautiful inside and out, extremely kind hearted, caring, generous to many, always interested in others and their families. She was the best mother and grandmother in the world - supporting her kids in every pursuit and always welcoming to everyone who came to visit. A special accomplishment at the age of 61, Mary decided to renew her Nursing accreditation in order to continue her passion of helping others.
Mary leaves behind her children and their spouses; Arlene, Dick and Kim as well as 6 grandchildren, Patrick, Allison, Ashley, Natasha, Tyler and Geoffrey as well as four great-grandsons, Neason, Wesley, Toby and Riley. Mary was very happy living in Origin at Spring Creek in Canmore where she had rekindled old friendships and made many new ones. The staff there were wonderful to mom. The family would like to thank Dr. Emma Morin for the kindness and compassion she extended to mom over the last years.
Mom was a gem who was loved deeply and will be missed and loved forever! Godspeed to a full life, very well lived.
