Vera Jean Blazenko

Born on a homestead on April 7,1930 in Northern Valley, Alberta, about 225 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, Vera was a dedicated homemaker, loving mother and wife, and an active volunteer in her church and various other charities as well as establishing a career outside the home after her children became independent.

In 1950, she married her childhood sweetheart, William “Bill” Blazenko, moving with him to Edmonton, Penticton, Vancouver and Victoria BC, supporting his career and together raising a family of five children.

Beyond her family life Vera lived a life of committed involvement in causes close to her heart, including community leagues, home and school associations, strata councils and inception of the Goldstream Food Bank in Langford. In addition, she contributed to the life of congregations of the United Church in each of the cities where she lived.

No matter how busy she was, she easily made new friends and maintained many older ones from her earliest days to her last while caring for her family. She loved nothing more than preparing large family meals for special occasions. She also loved baking, gardening, canning, sewing and crafts.

Vera was an amazingly warm and friendly person who was loved by many. She had a way of being neighbourly and graciously hospitable, and as a result she touched lives simply by being herself.

Her family feels fortunate to have had her life touch theirs. They aspire to have the same impact she had on others of kindness, cordiality and generosity. That would be a most beautiful legacy for her.

Vera is survived by her children, Gordon, Margaret, George (Maria) and Esther (Shayn); daughter- in-law Valerie; grandchildren Paul, Andrea, Andrew, Ty and Markus; and many great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband William “Bill”, and son Greg.

Special thanks to staff at the Priory Adult Day Programme and Priory (Hiscock and Heritage Woods) Long Term Care, many other outstanding caregivers and dear friends including the congregation of Gordon United Church for their loving help and assistance in her final years.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on October 17 at Gordon United Church followed by interment alongside her beloved husband William “Bill” at Hatley Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gordon United Church in Langford, Goldstream Food Bank or the charity of your choice.