Ourom, Edith Rita (Rosinke)

October 14, 1929 - December 9, 2007 Born in Kitchener, Ontario, and died peacefully in Vancouver after a short and valiant battle with brain cancer. Sadly missed by her sister, Eleanore Rosinke of Toronto; her husband of 54 years, Donald; daughters Julianne and Kathy; sons Anders and Peder (Louisa Jardine); and grandchildren Jens and Claire Ourom and Flora Dunster, who sorely miss their Granny O. Also survived by family in Canada, Germany, Norway and England. Predeceased by her parents, Leo Rosinke and Klara Kaesler, who emigrated from Prussia in the 1920's and settled in Kitchener-Waterloo. Mom was very proud of her German heritage. After high school, her independent and adventurous nature took her to Stratford Normal School, followed by teaching first in Goose Bay, Labrador, and then in British Guiana where she met Don, a civil engineer from Saskatchewan. After their marriage and a honeymoon in post-war Europe, Mom and Dad settled in Kingston, Ontario where all four children were born. In 1962, the family moved to and settled in Vancouver. Vancouver was a wonderful place to raise a family and enjoy the many outdoor and cultural opportunities of a larger city surrounded by mountains and ocean. After her children were in school, Mom completed her B.Ed. at U.B.C., specialising in school librarianship. “Mrs. O” worked as a teacher-librarian in Vancouver for 27 years instilling a lifelong love of reading in the children of Livingstone, Bayview, Waverley and Lord Nelson Schools. She passionately promoted children's literature and was active on various library and children's literature committees. Mom treasured her long-lasting friendships, including several from early childhood. She was a born teacher and supported many colleagues in their efforts to educate Vancouver children. Some of these working relationships blossomed into the very best of friendships. Her enthusiasms for Red Riding Hood, children's literature, antique silver teaspoons and other collectibles led to world-wide friendships and wide-ranging collections, as well as many enjoyable and productive visits to second hand stores. Mom approached life with enthusiasm and zest, ensuring there was never a dull or wasted moment. She inspired (and sometimes exhausted) others with her energy and ideas, and was generous with advice, whether welcome or not. After retirement she continued to enjoy life to the fullest with numerous trips to Europe, New York, Seattle, San Francisco, the Yukon, Alaska and Ontario, many focussed on opera and theatre, particularly the Ring Cycle. She belonged to Vancouver Opera and the Metropolitan Opera Guild. She was an avid gardener and spent many happy hours “playing in her garden” (as she called it) at home and at the cabin on Lasqueti Island where she fought an ongoing battle with the deer and sheep. She grew a variety of interesting plants ranging from kiwi and figs to herbs and heritage roses, and was generous in sharing with other gardeners. She was a Van Dusen Master Gardener for over twenty years, and was especially passionate about worm composting, teaching many workshops. She was also active in the Dunbar Garden Club, the Vancouver Guild of Embroiderers, the Catholic Women's League and other community organisations where she usually enlivened the proceedings. An accomplished cook and baker, her trays of homemade Christmas cookies, with recipes refined through many years of practise, were appreciated each year by all those fortunate enough to enjoy them. We are continuing with some of her traditions. Knitting, needlework and sewing were also accomplishments, with family members and charities being the lucky recipients of her output. Mom was a storyteller by nature. Often the tales grew in the telling, a trait inherited from her father. It has been said that she never let facts stand in the way of a good story. She was a voracious reader and self-described “printaholic”, as well as an enthusiastic letter writer, and loved to share her experiences with others. She was active in her church and participated in many activities, particularly craft fairs. She was strong in her faith, passionate about recycling, environmentally aware, and concerned about the world of the future. One of her last wishes was to contribute to educational programmes for schoolgirls in Afghanistan. The family would like to thank Robert Greenwood, M.D., for his friendship and care especially in the last few months and Marion Hospice for care in Mom's last days. Liturgy of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 2465 Crown Street at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 18th, followed by a reception in the church hall. Interment at St. John's, Fosterton, Saskatchewan in Spring 2008. No flowers. In keeping with her eclectic and wide-ranging interests, the family welcomes contributions in her name to AGAPE Street Ministry (Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate), The Land Conservancy of British Columbia or Canadian Women for Women Afghanistan. And to continue her love of children's literature and reading, we encourage you to take a moment and read a book to a child.

Published in the Vancouver Sun and/or The Province on 12/15/2007.

James, Sara Elizabeth (McKinnon)

After bravely fighting cancer for three years, Sara passed away peacefully with her family by her side at Vernon Hospice House, on July 1, 2007. Cremation has taken place. Born in Victoria, BC, March 3, 1941, Sara was daughter of Findlay McKinnon and Beatrice Ruttan. Beloved wife of David James, mother of Kathryn Stewart and Julianne (Greg) Wylie, adored Grandma to Ryan, Holly, James and Fiona. Big sister to her favourite brother Peter McKinnon. Step-mother of Julie James (Ivan), Gary James, Leonard (Tammy) James and family, Francis (Stuart) Leblanc and family. Sara also leaves behind adored cousins, Kat and Juli's Dad, Bill Stewart and his family, as well as many other special friends, new and longtime -- some for 60 years. Sara was a teacher/ librarian with the Surrey School Board (Holly and Bear Creek schools). She was a life-time member of P.E.O. and had a love of the water, sailing and world travel. Her smile and laugh will not be forgotten. Her red hair matched her vibrant personality and her hot rod Mustang Sally. Sara was known for her elegance in dealing with challenges and her classy way of dressing. She made an impression on all those that knew her and will never be forgotten. A celebration of Sara's life will be held at 2:00 pm on Tuesday, July 10, 2007 at Sovereign House on the shores of Kalamalka Lake in Coldstream, BC, 7604 Kidston Rd. Colourful, happy, semi-casual attire is encouraged. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of VJH, the VJH Cancer Clinic, the caring 'angels' at Hospice House, and especially to Dr. William Charlton.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice House of Vernon, 3506 - 27th Ave. Vernon, BC, V1T 1S4. Condolences may be sent by email to wylie542@telus.net

Grasdal, June Lorraine (Aubrey)

March, 15, 1921 - November 14, 2006.
June is survived by her three daughters, Christina Grasdal (Mark Schofield), of Seattle, Sylvia Keyes, of Cloverdale, and Paula Grasdal, of Vancouver. She is also survived by her brothers Ted Aubrey, of Victoria and Dennis Aubrey (Shirley), of Kelowna, and many cherished nieces and nephews and their families. She was predeceased in April 2002, by her husband of 50 plus years, A. Martin Grasdal and her brother, Roland (Bud) Aubrey in February 2000. June was born and raised in the Marpole area of Vancouver, graduated from Magee High School after which she completed her B.A. at U.B.C. She then started a long career as a teacher and school librarian for many Vancouver elementary and secondary schools eventually retiring from her position as librarian at Kitsalino High School. A passionate life member of the Vancouver Guild of Fabric Arts, June worked tirelessly to raise scholarship funds for aspiring fabric artists. She was a member of the University Women's Club at Hycroft for over 40 years, working on the building's restoration, club fund raising commitees, and her favorite event - Christmas at Hycroft. Many fond Grasdal/Aubrey family memories are of celebrations held at Hycroft, all organized by June. A love of nature was a life long passion inspired by childhood summers at Bowen Island. Her daughters will continue to visit the island to remember and reflect on how precious her life was and enjoy life that exists. 

June's daughters wish to invite all the many friends and family who will miss her to a memorial service to be held at The Unitarian Church of Vancouver, 949 West 49th at Oak, Saturday, November 25th, 2006 at 11:00AM. In lieu of flowers donations to the Y.W.C.A. of Vancouver or The David Suzuki Foundation would be appreciated.

Dobie, Agnes Willa

August 26, 1919 - April 4, 2005 On April 4th, 2005, Agnes Willa Dobie passed away in New Vista Care Home, Burnaby, at 85 years of age after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Agnes was born in New Westminster where she grew up, went to school, worked and lovingly cared for her mother. She studied to become a school teacher, graduating with the last class at the Vancouver Normal School. She taught in Field, Okanagan Centre, and Winfield then worked as School Librarian in several schools in the N. Okanagan. Agnes lived a life of Christian service, caring for her family and friends, teaching children to love books and life, providing Pastoral Care to residents at Cottonwoods in Kelowna after retirement, and led by example. She loved nature, finding joy in feeding wild birds and was happily surrounded by her cats and dogs. Agnes spent many happy days outdoors, taking long walks with friends and family. She is survived by her nieces, Jaquie Bunse of Burnaby, Lynda Lockwood (Laird) of Prince George, Craig Dobie (Debbie) of Summerland, and their families.

A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2005, at the Free Methodist Church at 320 - 8th Street, New Westminster at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name could be made to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.

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

Woodrow, Jean Clover

Jean, born April 26, 1907, left this life on June 11, 2004 at Vancouver General Hospital. Born in Vancouver, the daughter of Jessie MacLean and John Woodrow, Jean has MacLean relatives in Prince Edward Island and Ottawa. Jean graduated from the University of B.C. in 1926, took graduate studies in Library Science at the University of Washington (Seattle) and further post-graduate studies at L'Universitee de Paris. As Librarian at King Edward High School, Jean also used her musical and teaching skills in directing many of the school choirs and operetta productions. Jean encouraged many young people to continue Music. The last few years of her teaching career were at Eric Hamber Senior Secondary. She was an avid reader to the end of her life. A life-long member of the Presbyterian Church, and lover of good music, Jean was for many years soprano soloist in church choirs. Jean had many friends at Fairview, Central and Kerrisdale Presbyterian Churches, as well as at Crofton Manor, her residence since 1996. Jean will be lovingly remembered by many close friends, notably Thelma Hill, Leone Templeton, Graham Cumpston, and local relatives Edith and Robert McLellan. She will be sorely missed by all of us.

Jean's life will be celebrated at Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church on Thursday, June 17th at 2 pm the Reverend Glenn Ingles officiating. Donations in Jean's memory may be made to Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church, 2733 West 41st Avenue Vancouver, BC V6N 3C5.

Walsh, Verna Irene "Cindy" (Arnott)

Born February 2, 1920, died June 8, 2004 in West Vancouver, BC. Though stricken with Alzheimer's and later, with cancer, she died peacefully, without pain and with a daughter by her side. Born in Darlingford, Manitoba, Cindy lived every day of her life with vigour and determination. She served during WWII in Newfoundland, and recalled the moment when she was on duty to receive news of the death of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Cindy was a dedicated teacher, devoted to her young pupils, first in Manitoba and later in British Columbia. One of the first teachers to retrain as a librarian for North Vancouver schools, she instilled her students with a love of language, literature, and the arts. After retirement, her energies shifted to volunteer work, Unicef and The Harvest, for example. Cindy learned to swim in her sixties, plunging into the water with the same zeal with which she dove into life. Cindy modelled a work ethic that shaped her three daughters' upbringing, encouraging personal achievement. Her love of the home arts, gardening, sewing, decorating, and cooking were expressed in the dinner parties and other gatherings she frequently hosted in her home. Predeceased by her sisters Ethel Arnott and Beth Harriman, and her grandson Noah Keter, she will be lovingly remembered by her sister Iris Lechner, brother Allan Arnott, former husband, Don Walsh, daughters Kathryn Kennah, Elinor Keter, and Gwynyth Walsh, and her grandchildren Leslie, Erin, and Alexis.

Memorial Service to be held on Monday, June 14, 2004 at 10:00 a.m., at the Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Society.