Eleanor Anne Vuorinen

Eleanor was born in Saskatoon, Sask. to Wilfred and Anna Mabel (Byers) Edwards. Sister to Ivan and Bruce, she grew up enjoying her studies and both summer and winter sport. At eighteen she accepted a scholarship to the University of Toronto to study physical and occupational therapy. After graduation she began a long career as a physio in Calgary.

In Calgary she met Peter, and the two married in 1963 in Vancouver - a bond lasting more than 59 years. Mother to Kai, Carl (Anne), Rhys (predeceased) and Julie (Jim), and grandma to Olivia and Georgia, Eleanor loved to cook and entertain, hosting family dinners for parents, aunts and uncles, cousins and friends for decades.

Eleanor established her own physiotherapy clinic in North Vancouver, and later along with partners served the north shore community for many years. Upon giving up her practice she worked for Vancouver Coastal Health performing home visits as an OT, and did the same for many residents at Lynn Valley Care Centre.

During her resilient battle with Alzheimer’s, Eleanor never lost her sense of humour and love of life. She passed peacefully at the North Shore Hospice with Peter at her side.

Peter and family thank many friends who were always there for Eleanor. Thanks to Boal Chapel, and special thanks to the hospice and staff, and to the VCH home support team who provided tremendous care.

There will be a celebration of life service held in honour of Eleanor on September 29th at 2pm - Details to follow shortly.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.firstmemorialnorthvancouver.com for the Vuorinen family.