Alma D. Strachan

Alma Dorothea Strachan, a remarkable woman of strength and resilience, peacefully passed away at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished. It is with a heavy heart that I announce the loss of my beloved mother, who touched the lives of many with her unwavering spirit and zest for life.

Alma was born on June 23, 1922, in Sylvan Lake, Alberta, to Finnish immigrant parents who had settled in Canada in 1915. In the 1930s, she, along with her mother and sisters, relocated to Rossland, BC.

In 1942, an act of profound courage took place as Alma, walking down the street with her two younger sisters and her brother-in-law, entered the recruiting office in Trail, B.C., and joined the Royal Canadian Air Force. Deployed overseas to London, England in 1944, Alma proudly served as a corporal in the Royal Canadian Air Force, Woman's Division (RCAFWD). Her dedication and sacrifice during the war were recognized with prestigious honors, including the Defence Medal, War Medal (1939-1945), and Canadian Volunteer Service Medal.

At the end of the war, Alma's invaluable service was acknowledged when the Queen Mother invited the servicewomen to tea and a tour of the palace gardens—a heartfelt recognition of their contribution to the war effort. Alma returned to Canada in 1946, settling back in Rossland, BC. It was in Nelson, BC, where she found love and companionship in James Strachan, whom she married in 1956. In 1957 their family grew to include a son, James Alan. The family moved to Victoria BC when James retired and Alma worked at the Assessor’s office in Saanich.

As life unfolded, Alma's passion for the arts blossomed. Influenced by her time in England, she became an ardent enthusiast of classical music, ballet, opera, and plays. In Victoria, she discovered a deep love for oil painting, which became a significant part of her life. Alma's artistic expression became a means through which she captured the beauty around her, translating it onto canvas with each brushstroke.

After the passing of James in 1982, Alma embarked on a new chapter filled with adventure and exploration. Her thirst for life led her to travel extensively, accompanied by her friend from England. Remarkably, at the age of 80, Alma climbed Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia, and at 85, she fearlessly paddled in a dugout canoe in Costa Rica. Her zest for life inspired all those around her and served as a reminder that age is no barrier to embracing new experiences.

In her later years, Alma resided at Mount St Mary's Hospital, where she received exceptional care and support. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff who cared for Alma and supported her family during her time there.

Alma Dorothea Strachan will forever be remembered as a woman of unwavering strength, courage, and unwavering passion for life. Her legacy lives on through all those whose lives she touched.