Saturday, February 12, 2005

Matheson, Audrey Louise (Simpson)

January 26, 1926 - February 9, 2005. It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden loss of our daughter, mother, sister, aunt and friend. Audrey, of Richmond, B.C. was predeceased by her husband, John and her father, Geoffrey Simpson. She will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her mother Blanche "Shorty" Simpson, her sister Lois, brother Peter (Audrey) of Montreal, her daughter Donna and son Geoff of Richmond, B.C. She also leaves behind sisters-in-law Margaret, Pat, Catherine and Norma and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and her faithful canine companions Rupert and Teddy. Audrey was born, educated and began her teaching career in Montreal. She moved to Richmond in 1955 to start her married life with John and raise a family. Audrey returned to teaching with the Richmond School District in 1964 and retired as teacher-librarian in 1985. During her retirement, Audrey worked diligently to preserve and protect numerous heritage sites in Richmond. She was instrumental in the creation and development of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site. She will be remembered for her selfless commitment, passion and dedication to numerous organizations and committees, in particular the Richmond Retired Teacher's Association. She was a special lady who leaves behind many great friends and neighbours, especially Jane, who will miss her as a traveling companion, shopping partner and "lover" of life. Her family would like to thank the Richmond Community Dialysis Unit, St. Paul's Hospital Dialysis Unit and all the nurses, doctors and staff that cared for Audrey in her final month at St. Paul's Hospital.

A celebration of Audrey's life will be held Sunday, March 6, 2005 at 1 pm at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery N.H.S., 12138 - 4th Avenue, Steveston, B.C. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Audrey's name to the Canadian Diabetes Association or the Kidney Foundation of Canada. Rest peacefully, Mom