Mrs. Mary Grace Sawkins

Mary Grace (Daley) Sawkins Dec. 6, 1925 – March 1, 2018 Mary passed away peacefully in Burnaby, BC on March 1, 2018. She was pre-deceased by George, her loving husband of 68 years. Tragically, pre-deceaced by four grandchildren: Michelle Sawkins, Lisa, Linda, and James Maier. Also pre-deceased by her sister Nancy Holborn, and brothers Tom, Dan and Jerry Daley of Ontario, and all of her Sawkins in-laws. She is survived by her daughters Rosemary Mason and Marilyn Chepil, and her sons Doug (Laurie) Sawkins and Dave (Karen) Sawkins; by her 11 grandchildren: Lori (Shawn) Cathy (Kent), Debbie (Chad), Sandra (Frank), Kristian (Joy), Jessica (Chris), Derek (Kellie), Liz, Danielle, Brent and Tara. She was known as GG to her 13 Great Grandchildren: Aubrey, Mae, Gemma, Jude, Alexander, Nathaniel, Breenie, Noah, Justin, Jacob, Gian-Luigi, Michael and Brooklyn. Also survived by dear sister Pat (Bud) Raaflaub, and sister-in-law Velma Daley. Fun loving Aunt Mary will be remembered by many nieces, nephews and friends. Mary was extremely proud of her family and loved to be around when there was action! We are grateful that both of our parents lived long, rich lives and for the strong family values they passed onto us. Through joy and sadness, they were always with us. They will be forever in our hearts. Mary was born and raised in Magnetawan, Ontario. She briefly taught school in a one room log schoolhouse, now in the Teachers’ Museum of Ontario. After marrying George, they moved to Vancouver BC, where they resided for over 45 years and raised their four children. Their home was a constant beehive of activity as family and friends were welcome frequent visitors. They retired to Abbotsford, and spent their last few years in North Vancouver. Throughout her life, Mary found relaxation and pleasure in knitting and crocheting, honing her skills to produce exquisite sweaters that she designed herself, for every age. She crocheted beautiful lacy tablecloths for her children, and stockpiled more for each grandchild. She was sought after at Craft Fairs for the fine quality of her work. She leaves a tremendous legacy of master needlework. Mary had a zest for life and a twinkle in her eye. She loved playing cards, skiing, swimming, bowling, square dancing and paddling her own canoe. Her grandchildren admired her spunk! Mary also liked to gamble in Reno, partying with her longtime friend, Jean McKee. She loved family dinners and gatherings. The highlight of many summers was her journey “home” to Magnetawan, to visit her Daley family. For the last few years, Mary was a resident at George Derby Centre in Burnaby. The family wishes to thank the staff for the care she received. We are very grateful to companions Algene, Sally and Jo for their caring compassion in Mom’s last few months. A private service will be held in April, when Mom’s ashes are placed with Dad at Ocean View Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Mary’s life (she loved a good party) on Friday, May 4th, at 12:30 pm at the Cloverdale Legion, 17567 – 57 Avenue, in Surrey, B.C. A light lunch will be served.