Florence Margaret Capstick

Nov 23 1920 – May 27 2021

It is with great sadness that I must announce the passing of my mother Florence Capstick on the morning of May 27, 2021 in Peace Arch Hospital. She was born in Vancouver to James and Florence McMahon (Bookey). In 1922 the family moved to a one-acre property on Waltham Avenue to become Burnaby Pioneers. Along with sister Lillian, they roamed through the wilderness forest surrounding the property where wildlife ran freely. They helped with the large vegetable gardens and raised cats, dogs, ducks, two pet goats and five hundred chickens. They were well provided even through the Great Depression.

Florence graduated from Burnaby South High School in 1938 where she excelled as a student and played grass hockey. tennis and a member of Hi-Y. In 1941 she met and married Jack, a Burnaby boy who was a navigator-gunner instructor in the RCAF. Following the war and after a few difficult years they became established. They had five homes in Burnaby. Jack’s success in the construction industry and their contribution to the Burnaby community brought many years of rewarding and fulfilling experiences for both of them. They were members of Marine Drive Golf Club where they enjoyed their time together on the fairways. In 1999 they moved to South Surrey to spend their last years. Jack passed away in 2013 after 72 years together. After an accidental fall in 2014, Florence lost her independence. She lived with in-home day care these last years with the assistance of many very outstanding caregivers. I extend my sincere gratitude to all of them but particularly to Jeannie, Patricia, Teri, Erica and Wendi who cared and comforted her through her final days.

A special note of appreciation to the all of the nurses at PAH 2nd Floor Surgical and also to Dr. Arno Smit who provided me with the medical advice needed while she was nearing the end of her journey.

Florence is survived by her sister Lillian Herd (103), a nephew, three nieces and all of their families and me, her son Dennis. She will be missed by all.