Lillian Beatrice Tickles

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that Lillian Beatrice Tickles (née Hunter) passed away peacefully, with her family nearby, on the morning of May 15, 2019. Lillian was born “on the farm” in Radisson, Saskatchewan on December 3, 1933. For the next 85 years she personified the role of vanguard as a loving partner, mother, grandmother and educator. From the classroom to the library, from the University Senate to the Women’s Literary Club, Lillian always served others with the goal of making learning a priority. On August 20, 1960, Lillian and her journey partner Edward tied the knot in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, then set out in their white Pontiac to build a future in Calgary. Over the course of the next 59 years, children were born and raised, summer trips were taken, and countless hands of bridge were bid. In the early years there were careers to establish and cultivate; then later, the translation of all that hard work into the family’s prized cabin on Rosen Lake, a place to restore balance and make cherished memories. Deeply committed to faith and her spiritual beliefs, Lillian appreciated all the blessings in her life. Her friends were also her confidants. She had many passions, from getting in nine holes of golf before the heat became too oppressive, to making sure there were enough butter tarts stashed away for after school. To the colleagues and family who knew her well, her dedication to gifted education and the young people who she helped prepare for tomorrow will always be remembered and admired. Lillian’s siblings, Richard Hunter, Dorothy Gullion, George Hunter, and Lorraine Hunter; as well as her children Laurel and Dean Tickles; daughter-in-law Janis Tickles; grandson Riley Tickles; and of course her husband and best friend Edward Tickles, have many fond memories that will never be forgotten. In the spirit of her favourite happy place with people “beside the dock,” she wanted those who could attend to participate in a Celebration of Life, to take place on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, at the Holy Nativity Anglican Church, (12707 Lake Bonaventure Drive S.E.). For those wishing to honour Lillian’s memory, the family suggests that donations to the Calgary Public Library would make a fitting tribute to a priority Lillian always held close to her heart.