Ms. Yvonne Bilen

It is with sadness in our loss, and gratitude for a life lived with self-determination, strength and commitment to family, that we announce the passing of Yvonne Bilen on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at the age of 90 at Woodhaven Long Term Care home in Markham.

Predeceased by her husband Roko Bilen (d. 2005), mother to Leslie Payson (d. 2012); Jeff Bilen (Kim) of Listowel, Milica Hayle (Wray) of Pickering, Dianna Deline (Bob) of Hamilton and John Bilen (Christine) of Markham; grandmother to Thomas (Sandy) and April (Nole) Payson, Robert Bilen, Christopher and Anthony Hayle, Nicole (Taylor Kermath) and Matthew (Kate) Deline, and Matthew and Hannah Bilen; and great grandmother to Taylor and Skylor Payson and Peyton Kermath.

Yvonne was born in Shelburne, Ontario and lived her early years in Toronto as well as in Nova Scotia, before settling in Kitchener as a young adult, where she lived for more than 55 years. Yvonne worked to provide for her family through a variety of jobs, while running a busy household with her remarkable brand of resourcefulness and efficiency. She was highly creative, with an admirable knack for sewing and handicrafts – knitting and crocheting among her favourites. She read voraciously and could converse on a wide range of topics from local news to current events to politics at all levels of government. She was a master at crosswords and puzzles of all kinds. She had a keen sense of humour, a curiosity that was fueled throughout her life by self-directed learning, and a strong sense of duty to lend assistance wherever she could.

Yvonne was fiercely independent, living in her Kitchener home until it became necessary to move into long term care. Woodhaven, and the Buttonville Home Area specifically, became her community, where residents and staff came to know and appreciate her kindness, her engaging views, intelligence and wit. In her final days, staff demonstrated a level of professionalism and compassion that truly honoured who Yvonne was and supported our family in following her wishes. We are indebted for their tremendous assistance and care.

In keeping with Yvonne’s wishes, there will not be a visitation or service. For those wishing to make a donation in Yvonne’s memory, please consider giving in care of the Residents’ Council at Woodhaven or to the Alzheimer Society of York Region.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ThompsonFH-Aurora.com for the Bilen family.