Bathurst - It is with great sadness that the family of Margaret Kathryn Gravestock (nee Punkari) announces her peaceful passing at the Chaleur Regional Hospital, surrounded by loved ones, on March 19, 2025, after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. She was 75 years old.
Margaret is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Gravestock, with whom she shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Together, they raised three children: Garrett (Lise) of Bathurst, NB, Lori Rheault (Norman) of Ripples, NB, and Marcy Comeau (Marc) of Miramichi, NB. Margaret was a proud grandmother to Hailey (Henrik), Aaron, Brendan, Logan, Bryan, Liam, Gillian, and Emily. She was also a cherished step-grandmother to Kylie, Kaitlyn, Zachariah, and Jeremiah, and a step-great-grandmother to Callum. Lovingly known as "Mumma", she had a special bond with each of her grandchildren.
Born in Sudbury, ON, Margaret was the daughter of the late Harold Punkari and Martha (Toivonen) Punkari, and the youngest of five children.
She was predeceased by her beloved brothers, Robert, Peter, and is survived by her loving siblings, John and Brenda Johnston. Margaret cherished her in-laws and was an amazing aunt to thirteen nephews and nieces, all of whom, along with their families, held a special place in her heart. One of her greatest joys was visiting her family’s Camp on Elbow Lake every summer, where she created cherished memories surrounded by nature and loved ones.
In 1980, Margaret's family moved to Belledune, NB, where she made many lifelong friends, including her best friend of 40 years, Linda Fenelon (Bill). Known for her generous spirit, Margaret hosted big breakfasts every year on Boxing Day, cooking for the entire townsite all by herself. She was an active member of the community, volunteering for many organizations that her children were involved in. In 1988, they settled in Bathurst, NB, the place she lovingly called “home”.
She was an excellent baker and was known for her delicious banana cake and Finnish bun. She enjoyed gardening, reading, and was a sports enthusiast. Her love for birds brought her immense joy, adding to the beauty of her surroundings. Margaret was known for her warmth, wisdom, and sense of humour. Her quick wit and infectious laughter made her beloved presence at any gathering. Margaret’s unwavering support and kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was loved by many and will be deeply missed.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the oncology department and the palliative care unit the Chaleur Regional Hospital, the palliative care team at the New Brunswick Extra-Mural Program, Mallais Home Care, and the Canadian Red Cross for their compassionate care and support.
A private Celebration of Life will be held to honour Margaret’s memory. There will be no visitation or funeral service. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst, NB.
