Wendy Elizabeth Cairns

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Wendy, at Lion’s Gate Hospital. She is predeceased by her parents Ernie and Win Mitchell and by her sister Daphne. Wendy is lovingly remembered by her husband of almost 50 years, John; Daughters, Jennifer (David), Susannah (Steve), Alison (Mike); Sisters, Pamela, Cynthia; Grandchildren, Nathan, Ella, Tyler, Simon, Rowan (whose baby sister will be born in July); Mother-in-Law Lois; Brother-in-law Richard; Sisters-in-law, Susie, Debbie, and Penny, as well as their spouses and children; and a large, loving, extended family across Canada. Wendy was a beautiful person in every sense. She will be remembered for her gentle nature, her warmth, and her love of family and friends. Her creativity found outlets in the décor of her house and her lovingly-tended gardens, her detailed, exquisite letters from travels with John, her poems and songs for so many celebrations with friends, and her wondrous culinary offerings. She found joy in classical music, French literature, good food and wine, Christina Lake, hiking in Ontario and BC, skiing, golf, lake and white water canoeing, and travel. She was a constant support to John during a long career in academic medicine. A service in Wendy’s honour will be held from Boal Chapel, 1505 Lillooet Road, North Vancouver, on Wednesday June 6th at 2:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Wendy’s memory would be greatly appreciated. The Family would like to thank the nurses, doctors and staff of Lions Gate Hospital for their expert and sensitive care over many months, and the nurses and other bedside staff at Lynn Valley Care Centre, for kindness and practical support over the past two difficult months. No one had more appreciation than Wendy for life and those who surrounded her. It was often, when among family, in nature, or with friends that she would simply state, “I am so lucky.” For all who knew her, we are the lucky ones. Wendy will live forever in the thoughts of her family and many dear friends.