32 Metcalfe Street West | Strathroy, Ontario N7G 1M6 | Phone: (519) 245-1023 | Email: office@dennings.ca
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Ursula & Richard NyweningQpbTP lit a candle
Tuesday, February 9, 2021
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Desiree Makuto posted a condolence
Monday, February 1, 2021
Saddened to hear of the passing of Marina. Enjoyed many laughs, happy days, common sense and sage advice. Will miss your joyful laughter and incredible smile. Rest well, will miss you a great member of the Centennial family
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Lina DiGirolamo donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Monday, February 1, 2021
We are sorry for your loss. Marina's vivacious personality will be missed!
Forever in our hearts. Love Lina and Ty DiGirolamo
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Joseph Li lit a candle
Sunday, January 31, 2021
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Dear Marina, it’s heartbreaking to learn of your passing. Like so many blessed lives whom you have touched I am also one amongst. I can never thank you enough for all you have done for me. I came to Canada as a student with nothing in my pocket. Like many international students it was challenging to get the opportunity make the Canadian dream. However, God blessed me and you came along. I still remember clearly in the summer of 2005 when I walk into your office at Centennial College International Education Centre and asked for a job. Without the slightest hesitation, you offered me a volunteer student job. You had no clue but that job was my first job in Canada and to me it was worth a million dollars. That very job you offered got me to where I am today. I am sure you will be proud to hear me say I have made the Canadian dream. I am now working for a major financial institution, bought a small little home, and living a great life with my wife and baby daughter. What more can I ask for? In all of this, you are the guardian angel that made my life. You have been and will always remain my inspiration in life. Thank you Marina and I thank God for you. I will miss you. See you in the next life. My deepest sympathies goes out to your loving family in this very difficult time.
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Kirsten uploaded photo(s)
Friday, January 29, 2021
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I am a close friend of Katherine’s from nursing school. I lived down the street from Marina, Dave, and Katherine while in school. Marina welcomed me into their home with open arms... always up for good discussion, wine, and food. And usually there was dancing involved too. Marina made me feel like I was a part of the family on a daily basis while I was far away from my own. Thankful for her in so many ways. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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Oleg Veselskiy donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Friday, January 29, 2021
With deepest sympathy love Ginny and Oleg
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Minerva posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
I am extremely sad for your departure, but thankful for having met you. You left an unforgettable imprint on my heart and on many people's lives. You are a unique and unfiltered woman. I loved your genuine spontaneity, contagious laugh, colorful outfits and vision of life. I will never forget the advice you gave me: work smarter, not harder and live life to the fullest. Thank you for trusting in me, even when I did not believe in myself. I will proudly continue your legacy and remarkable work. My sincere condolences to your family. Safe travels my dearest Marina!
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Lucy knox lit a candle
Friday, January 29, 2021
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Marina is my role model for my life I'm very proud to have had a chance to be part of my life she shall always be in my heart
Till we meet again my Angel
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Carrie Kirkbride posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
Marina was my colleague at Centennial College. I enjoyed long animated conversations with Marina often over the years. She was a joy to spend time with and will be greatly missed. The funeral ceremony for her was beautiful and touching. My heartfelt condolences to her family at this time.
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Svetlana lit a candle
Friday, January 29, 2021
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Marina helped me start my life in Canada, inspired me to follow my dreams, and grow in the person I am today. Take care, Marina. I will be missed...
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Keiko Hoehn lit a candle
Friday, January 29, 2021
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I remember fondly how I knew you were back from your long recruitment trips because I could hear you through the office walls! Your passion for students and for life was infectious and I'll always remember the dating advise and encouragement you gave me - so many fun memories. My sincere condolences to your family during this difficult time. Rest in peace Marina.
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Laura Wood posted a condolence
Friday, January 29, 2021
I was so saddened to learn of Marina’s passing. While I didn’t know her well, our chats during the brief time we overlapped at the College demonstrated Marina’s clear passion for living and working to the fullest – something I admired and shall miss. Take care, Marina... my condolences to your family at this very difficult time.
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Christopher Cleary-Darwent posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Oh Marina, where do I begin? I was so young when I first met her, that I can no longer remember a time I didn’t know her, perhaps because meeting her was so seamless and she was so welcoming. She inspired many during her time with us, as she offered people harbourage, food, or her words, to help craft them into the best they could be. She should be remembered for her confidence, but also her kindness and compassion, always seeking to make the best out of the people in her life, and even though she is gone, the good work she has done lives on in each of us.
-Christopher
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Rod Smith posted a condolence
Thursday, January 28, 2021
Dear Emily and Katherine:
We were so sad to hear of the passing of your wonderful mother, Marina. We have so many fine memories of your family from the time you lived on Kingsmount Park Road in Toronto. Our thoughts are with you and your families at this difficult time.
Emily, Claire, Laura, Patsy and Rod Smith
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Cheryl Martin lit a candle
Thursday, January 28, 2021
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Marina, your beautiful, vibrant spirit will always be with us. I feel so blessed to have known you; you are in my heart. Condolences to Dave, and all of Marina's family.
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Crystal Lambert lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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My sincerest condolences to Katherine and family
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Mike Rende donated to CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY - SOCIÉTÉ CANADIENNE DU CANCER
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
In memory of Marina, our friend, who inspired all of us with her courage and spirit.
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Robert Wagubi lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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There is only one Marina , I thank God for having met her , I visited her home she visited me in Uganda ,taught me a lot of things I can proudly say I am what I am today because of her! Rest In Peace .
Robert Wagubi
WR Education Placement consultants ltd
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Dani Taylor posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
I met the beautiful, vibrant, outspoken, intelligent, ambitious Marina in the 1970’s at Lord Stanley’s Feast, a popular restaurant in downtown Toronto. We both graduated from waitressing to become Assistant Managers there. We worked well together and played well even more. (insert some giggles here). I was honoured when she asked me to sing at her wedding.
As members of the Toronto Squash Club, we religiously attended the Aerobics classes. It seemed in no time at all, there was Marina at the front of the studio, looking stunning in her neon leotard, complemented by a headband and leg warmers. She would lead us through her high energy workouts to the throbbing disco beats of that era.
Speaking of disco…Marina was once a disco Queen. On a business trip to Chicago, it was a wonder we found time to be at the industry show when there were so many fabulous restaurants and discotheques to check out. One evening, Marina brought an entire throbbing, flashing, gyrating disco to a standstill. She had lost a contact. The music stopped; the houselights went up. Then all these “dressed to the nines” party goers were on their hands and knees searching for the lost contact…… that miraculously reappeared in her eye!! Oh My we laughed and laughed ....
We went our separate ways professionally, but always stayed in touch. Marina’s open-door policy certainly applied to me as I became a runaway from an unhealthy relationship. Living with Marina, she changed my life and helped me get back on my feet again. I am forever grateful for this kindness and generosity.
Years later, at Marina’s urging, my husband and I hired her Mom, Bea to be our real estate agent. It was clear to see where Marina inherited some of those no-nonsense business smarts. We loved the house Bea chose. When Marina worked at Herzing College her office was conveniently located 5 minutes from where I worked, so it was easy to pop in and visit. But then we left the city years ago, and I didn’t see Marina again until Christmas day 2014, just after her surgery. I finally got to meet her perfect husband, Dave and her daughters, Emily and Katherine who I had not seen since they were children. My heart breaks for those left to grieve, and I offer my condolences to them and the extended family.
Summer of 2018, I had the privilege of staying with Marina and Dave (and Daisy) for several days. It was wonderful to say the very least. We talked for hours and enjoyed good wine and good food. Marina told me about a friend of hers in Thunder Bay who was raised Monarch butterflies. That is now something that I do. Last week, Marina texted to me: I love you and will see you in the next life. Just like a Monarch, I believe that Marina has transformed into a being that is even more fabulous than she was here on earth. Now, whenever I release a newly hatched Butterfly I will think of Marina, with LOVE.
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David Darwent lit a candle
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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From the first time that I met her, I knew that Marina was special, not only impossibly beautiful but smart, caring and personality-plus. Totally out of my league, for sure! But, somehow she became my wife & we had an incredible life together, tragically much too short. I miss her constantly & undoubtedly will for the rest of my life. She was so brave and strong, supporting us that were left behind right up to the very end. There are not many that come along like her & it is the lucky few amongst us that got to experience the magic of Marina. For the rest, you missed a real treat and a very special person.
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Shelley Crawford uploaded photo(s)
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
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It’s with such a heavy heart that these words flow... Marina was such a dear friend of almost 25 years. We’ve laughed, dined and relished a good life at home and on many vacations. She and Dave embraced my family as their own - always generous beyond compare.
As many will recall, Marina was a bold, larger than life women who spoke her mind and shared her passions with everyone. At times we’d roar with laughter and at times you knew she’d brought a deep, honest truth to the table.
Her sense of place was her home, and wherever Marina and Dave settled, it was immediately a warm, inviting second home to many friends and a large and extended family and their pets. We were all welcome!
Marina’s lust for life meant that she pushed herself professionally and personally- always striving to do it all and do it well. It’s no wonder so many colleagues and students she met cherished their time with her as a friend and mentor. It would take her 1/2 hour to complete a short walk across the cruise ship dining room as she’d stop at every table to chat and get to know new folks. She even befriended a young Russian waiter and counselled her on education opportunities and career paths, getting to know about her goals, her family and life on the ship. So Marina.
Her kids and Dave’s kids were so important to her- no question the girls were, as the matured, her pride and joy, and she wanted the best of them and for them. Love abounded among them all.
Dave was her closest, dearest friend and confidante - the love of her life ...and she never failed to tell each person what he meant to her. Many good stories behind that one! To see outrageously funny Marina with her quiet, introspective, dry witted, patient husband was delightful and he basked in her infectious zest for life regardless of the circumstances.
We will all miss her... whether it be the Toronto friends or those up here near Thunder Bay. Rest In Peace my dear friend and to all the family, including of course dear Baca, I know your grief is immense. I wish I could hug you all. Love from Shelley, Teddy, Cindy and David
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Krista Zschogner lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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So sorry to hear such sad news, condolences to all family and friends.
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Arax Acemyan uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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A soulmate, partner in crime, a colleague of the best kind, virtual travels while packing your bags to far away lands, and the list goes on and on.... Highlights: The pictures below, hosting the Swedish delegation in May 2014 and trusting me to plan and execute your symposium in Istanbul, virtually.
Blessed to have crossed paths with your generous heart Marina!
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Susan Dunbar donated to Canadian Breast Cancer Support Fund
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
To Marinas family
We all loved Marina and she fought a great fight. My prayers are with you and the girls.
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Sandra lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Heaven has gained another Angel, an angel that God brought into my life here in Canada. You are a SUPER SPECIAL WOMAN, I truly have no words at this moment. You touched MANY people’s lives from all over the world with your sweet heart, like you did for me in 2006. “This is Marina's Legacy”. You welcomed me to this country and thanks to your kind heart, my life has been different since I met you. THANK YOU, for being my inspiration, my mentor, for making me laugh over the most stressful situations. You are one of those angels in this world that has touched and will be loved and missed by many. Centennial has never been the same since you left. Love u soooo much and once again thank you.
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Priscila lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Marina,
I met with you a handful of times and they were memorable. You made me feel like an old friend. The last time we spent together was in your office. You always invited me to sit with you for lunch when I was on campus, at times I had to say no because of my schedule. That last time you munched away at your salad and spoke of buying a house in southwestern Ontario. We looked online at houses and chatted about moving to the region. After every time I was at Progress I looked for you to get an update and have lunch..then one day I was told you were on leave.
Rest in peace.
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Youliana Tzvetkova lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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To Marina
I didn't have the chance to know you better, but the few hours we spent together are enough to know what a wonderful person you were. May your soul rest in a peaceful, serene and tranquil place. Your memory lives on.
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Jimmy Leong lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Marina, you were my first manager and supervisor in Canada, Thank you for giving me my first job opportunity when I was still a co-op student, that first opportunity opened doors to many opportunities and to where I am now today.
I will forever be thankful and grateful to you, during my time with you, you were a great mentor and like a mother to me.
May your soul rest in peace and Heaven be happy to have an angel in their arms. Thank you for everything.
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Carrie McGinnis posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
The Wonderful memories that this lovely, brave woman left behind will be forever in the hearts of her family and friends. Rest in peace, Marina.
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Bruce and Kelly McKenna posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to all of Marina's family. Her bravery and courage will carry on through her cherished daughters! We are sorry that we didn't get a chance to spend more time to enjoy Marina's company and the joy of joining our families but she will always be remembered and always be a part of our family. Our thoughts and wishes for the comfort of all the precious memories she leaves behind for her wonderful family and friends.
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Gillian Riley uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Our condolences go out to Dave and all of Marina's family. We will remember all the happy times we shared on holiday in Canada, Italy, England and most recently in Florida with Marina and Dave. As we look at photos like this we miss Marina but hope that these memories will bring us joy in the months to come. We'll all miss you Marina.
Lots of love
Gill and Les
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Sue and Pete lit a candle
Tuesday, January 26, 2021
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Our thoughts and love are with Dave and all of Marina's family at this sad time. The wonderful memories of family holidays with them in Canada, Italy, USA and here in the UK will always be with us and, and we'll cherish them and look back with great affection and love.
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Maggie Smith lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Maggie Smith Posted Jan 25, 2021 at 9:59 PM
I can still remember the day Marina walked into my office and said she was here for an interview.The smell of her perfume and that smile, lit up the room. Little did I know she was going to be my manager and a wonderful friend. She treated her staff with respect and her door was always open if you needed to talk. I will miss her smile, her laughter and that shoulder to cry on. My prayers are with her family. Thank you for all the memories and for being part of my life. Love You, Maggie
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Anthony Stille posted a condolence
Monday, January 25, 2021
So sorry to hear about Marina. Spent a lot of great times with her over the years in cities all over the world. She was a legend in our industry and will be sadly missed by many.
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Susan Dunbar lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Michelle Robertson lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Marina, you were more than just a manager you were a dear friend.
We traveled together, we laughed, cried and I learned so much from you. I am proud and honored to say that I had the pleasure of being part of your life. You lived your life to the fullest and had such a genuine spirt. Your sense of humor and boldness was part of your amazing qualities.
My friend, I will miss you dearly but you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace.
Dave, Emily, Katherine, Mum and extended family. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Your friend Michelle Robertson
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Ursula Howard Sellitto posted a condolence
Monday, January 25, 2021
Marina! Marina!
When you have a friend that you wish you were more like, that you’ve admired and respected both professionally and personally, that’s Marina. She was honestly, one of the few people I really admired.
Marina loved life and loved people, and she was such a nurturer without even trying. That‘s who she was.
My treasured memories with Marina are simple things: at work, we’d go on breaks together, later when we both were home, I’d go to Marina’s house for coffee, or she’d come to my house, our power walks because we were going to get in shape, and Marina walking faster than me leaving me in the dust. lol, We’d go shopping, and the time I tried to buy a house a few doors over from her so we can be neighbours but it fell through. lol
That’s just as well, Marina & Dave moved to Strathroy and I would have had to live on that street without them, that would’ve been upsetting because I’d miss my friend everyday and I‘d be all judgey to the new neighbours lol
I will miss Marina’s humour, her calm demeanour, her bravery, her wisdom, her honesty. With heartfelt gratitude, I will miss our friendship and the time we were colleagues and friends on this earth. I’ll never forget her.
We always wish we had more time.
Hey, Marina, we weren’t finished yet. I still have stuff to tell you! There’s some exciting things on the horizon and I want to share with you.... but that’s just me being selfish and wanting you here, it’s time for you to rest..
Marina, I know you’ll be watching over your friends and family.
Rest In Peace Marina, and know that you were loved by many. I’ll never forget you.
“I love you”
“I love you back”
Ursula Howard Sellitto
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Ingrid Zschogner lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Sheena Alleyne - Barbados lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Almost ten years ago I met an amazing woman who would forever change my life. She helped to give me the push needed to go beyond what was expected. Marina was fearless. Most importantly she was upfront and honest. She loved people and she enjoyed being able to help them build a life for themselves through education. Between 2011 and 2017, I travelled with her to conferences and on recruitment trips across the Caribbean. It never felt like work. Marina took her job seriously but always made everything interesting. There was never a dull moment.
One of my favorite Marina stories is the one about my first meeting with Daisy. Marina's precious designer doodle. Now I have a morbid fear of dogs and I told Marina this when we first met. Marina point blank said, 'You have to meet Daisy'. 'You will love her'. When I visited Canada, I was apprehensive about visiting her home because of my fear of dogs but Marina would not let up. She said, 'you are coming over. Dave is cooking. We'll eat, drink some wine and relax'. My heart by now is in my hands because I'm thinking to myself that this lady didn't hear me correctly when I said I was mortified of dogs. Long story short, Marina gently introduced me to Daisy doodle and the rest was history. We had a great evening. She was right. I did love Daisy. She was definitely not the typical dog. It was in a conversation a year or so later that she explain why she insisted that I meet Daisy. She said, ' Sheena, I want you to be fearless. I want you to walk this world as though it is yours'. Needless to say that was not my last trip to Marina's. Our last visit with each other would be in 2018 when I drove out to Strathroy. We ate, drank and relaxed with Daisy all in the mix. Had it not been for COVID, I would have visited last year.
Marina embraced me - my fears and dreams. Thank you for everything. I will continue to walk strong and without fear. To Dave, Emily, Katherine, her mum and all of her family and friends - my heartfelt condolences. From Sheena, family and team at The Student Centre in Barbados. Sleep well my friend. Love always.
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Anne Wolf lit a candle
Monday, January 25, 2021
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So very sorry to hear about Marina, she was joy to get to know. I feel very sad for the whole family. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this very sad time.
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Richard Obeng Assuming uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Richard Obeng Assuming Posted Jan 25, 2021 at 6:25 PM
Met Marina in 2014 in Vancouver. She spotted me during a conference and she just told me she want me to work for her as an agent for Centennial College. She trained me , signed agreement with my agency . Through her effort Centennial College sponsored me to run the most historic educational seminar in Four cities in Ghana . Through this, we have had over 100 students who have enrolled in Centennial College.
Marina is a mother , mentor and advisor to me . She had lived a blue print life . RIP mum
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Dillon Mckenna uploaded photo(s)
Monday, January 25, 2021
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Picture from the day I met Marina. She was so kind and immediately made me feel welcome into her family. I am very lucky to have known her and she is very missed.
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The family of Marina Joan Lawrence uploaded a photo
Monday, January 25, 2021
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