Florence "Flo" Stonehouse

Florence “Flo” Stonehouse, 86, of Kamloops, BC, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 7, 2026, with the love of her family surrounding her.

Flo was born on December 31, 1939, in Gander Bay, Newfoundland, to Daniel and Doris Eastman. After losing her mother at just two years old, Flo was lovingly raised by her Uncle Key and Aunt Allie. She spent her childhood growing up in Grand Falls, Newfoundland, and remained deeply proud of her Newfoundland roots throughout her life. Although she lived in many different places over the years, Newfoundland was always home in her heart, and she was forever proud to call herself a “Newfie.”

At age 18, on a whim and with the adventurous spirit that would stay with her throughout her life, Flo joined the Canadian Air Force. In 1959, she met and married her first husband, Jim Hill, and together they welcomed their children, Danny and Sherry. During these years, Flo and her family lived on various Canadian Armed Forces bases across Canada. Later, Flo met Alan Stonehouse. They married in 1972 and welcomed their daughter, Trudy. In 1977, the family made their home in Kamloops, where Flo would spend the remainder of her life, with Al by her side.

Flo devoted herself to her family. She took great pride in creating a beautiful, welcoming home and was an exceptional cook. She was also a gifted cake decorator, and her cakes became a much-loved part of family celebrations and gatherings. But beyond the meals, the spotless home, and the beautiful cakes, Flo’s greatest gift was the warmth she created around her. Her family always knew they had a place where they were loved, welcomed, and cared for.

Flo loved nothing more than a good laugh. She had a mischievous streak and a playful sense of humour, and she especially loved when someone else could make her laugh. She was always ready for a funny story, a bit of teasing, or some good-natured silliness.

While Flo treasured being a mother, it was becoming a Nana that truly brought out her greatest joy. She adored her grandchildren and was deeply involved in their lives, taking great pleasure in being part of their care, their upbringing, and their everyday adventures. Each of her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. To them, Nana Flo was the fun Nana, the silly Nana, the loving Nana—the one whose love was unconditional and whose presence made life a little brighter. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were among her greatest joys, and her family was her life’s work.

Flo also enjoyed a wonderful social life and treasured the friendships she made throughout the years. She was a proud member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority for many years, where she formed lasting friendships and shared countless good times, laughter, and memories with her fellow members.

Flo embraced an active lifestyle and enjoyed keeping fit. She spent many happy hours working out at Ladies Only and cross-country skiing with Al and her friends. She especially loved being on her bike, and her biking adventures with Jean and Tina became some of her favourite memories. She loved the companionship, the fresh air, and the simple joy of being out and about with good friends.

As her children grew older, Flo enjoyed a variety of jobs and adventures. She worked as a hairdresser, did food demonstrations at Overwaitea, and even spent time taking photographs of newborn babies at the hospital. For many years, she worked in several stores along Victoria Street in Kamloops, including Kipp Mallory Boutique, Joyce’s Fashions, and Lavender Lingerie. Flo had a wonderful sense of style and a love of fashion. She took pride in her appearance, had high standards, and appreciated quality. She enjoyed looking her best and had an eye for finding something special.

Through all of life’s adventures, Flo’s greatest comfort and support came from her husband, Al. She often said that meeting Al was the best thing that ever happened to her. Together they raised their family, opened their home to countless dinners and parties with family and friends, and travelled on many memorable trips. As the years passed and Flo came to rely on Al more and more, his love, patience, and unwavering support never faltered. Their 54 years together were filled with family, friendship, laughter, and a deep and enduring love.

Flo will be lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Al Stonehouse; her children, Danny (Jeanette), Sherry (Jack), and Trudy (Brett); her grandchildren, Dara (Jamie), Brynn (Ryan), Jenny (Matt), Erin (Casey), Charlie (Kenedi), Abby, and Elizabeth; her seven great-grandchildren; and her brother, Wayne.

She was predeceased by her parents, Daniel and Doris Eastman, her sister, Marion (Ben) Wicks and her Uncle Key and Aunt Allie.

Flo leaves behind a lifetime of love, laughter, family traditions, friendships, and memories that will be cherished for generations. She was a devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A service celebrating Flo’s life will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Schoening Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Gemstone Kamloops for the kindness, compassion, and wonderful care they provided to Flo over the last few years.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Flo’s memory may make a memorial donation to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.