Sylvia Elizabeth Pugh Dickinson

Daughter of Richard John Stoneman and Alice Lilian Hill, was born on September 4, 1929, in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba. Sylvia grew up in a large family of 3 brothers (Gordon, Jack and Richard) and two sisters (Lilian (Warke) and Carol (Gherasim)) with a strong sense of family, community and prairie resilience. Throughout her long life, she carried those values with her quiet strength, kindness, and a steadfast devotion to the people she loved. Her sister, Lilian Warke, who lived with her at the Comox Valley Seniors Village (CVSV), is the last of the clan now but we are so grateful that Mom had her sister so close in her final years to share meals and together regale their co-habitants with tales of growing up in the prairies and the lives that they lead.

Sylvia married Duane Carson Dickinson in 1947 and built a life together defined by generosity and gentle wisdom. She approached every challenge head on and every joy with appreciation. Their family grew with 4 children, Janet Hunter (Ian), Greg (Abbey), Karen Benson (Ted) and Gary (Danielle), then resulted in 11 Grandchildren, 23 Great-Grandchildren and 3 Great-Great-Grandchildren.

As an Air Force family, Sylvia and Duane moved around a lot. The family lived in every province of Canada except Newfoundland, and 3 states. She worked in retail sales in several locations but the job that she loved the most was as a Matron for the R.C.M.P. detachment in Courtenay. She will be remembered for her unwavering love, her humour, music and the calm, steady presence she brought to every room. Her legacy lives on in the family and friends who were fortunate to know her.

Sylvia’s family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and medical staff at CVSV, her doctors, nurses and all others who provided compassionate support in her final years.

A private gathering will be held at a later date to honour her life.

She will be deeply missed and forever cherished.