Mary Elizabeth Bayer

Mary Elizabeth Bayer, born on February 10, 1925, in Edmonton, Alberta, was a remarkable Canadian writer, poet, politician, and librettist. Growing up in Manitoba, she graduated from Kelvin High School in Winnipeg in 1943. Bayer was not only a talented artist but also a trailblazer in public service, becoming Manitoba's first woman Assistant Deputy Minister for Culture & Heritage.

Throughout her career, Bayer made significant contributions to the arts and community service. She pioneered adult daytime television programming at the CBC and served as the executive director of several organizations, including the Volunteer Bureau, the Manitoba Centennial Corporation, and the Manitoba Arts Council. Her leadership extended to her role as the first president of Heritage Winnipeg and as president of Heritage Canada.

In addition to her administrative roles, Bayer was actively involved in various cultural and educational initiatives. She was a member of the Confederation Centre of the Arts in Charlottetown and represented Canada on the UNESCO commission. Her commitment to youth was evident through her service on the national executive for the Girl Guides of Canada.

After retiring to Victoria in 1980, Bayer continued her advocacy for the arts and community, chairing the Greater Victoria Library Board and the British Columbia Heritage Society. Her contributions were recognized in 1994 when she was named a member of the Order of Canada. Bayer passed away on September 7, 2005, in Victoria, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and achievement, including a collection of poetry titled Faces of Love and contributions to the opera Grant, Warden of the Plains.