Redina Baines passed peacefully in her apartment. Surrounded by her photo albums, books, music and memorabilia of a life well lived. A life filled with extraordinary moments. Family and friends were able to have a celebration of her life on her 100th birthday, just weeks before her passing.
Redina was predeceased by her husband Lloyd and is fondly remembered by her son David (Donna); grandchildren: Aprile (James), Andrew (Andrea) and Sarah (Nick) and great grandchildren: Cassidy, Kaitlyn, Kiera, Lucas and Sophia.
Mom was born and raised in Manchester England, one of three siblings, (two brothers Frank and Sidney pre-deceased)
Redina was a lifelong learner and would visit the Manchester Public Library every chance she had, to delve into the arts and history (Nelson was her hero).
When the war came Redina joined the Woman’s Auxiliary RAF as a lorry driver. She was based in Lincoln at the Waddington Air Base and was attached to The Australian bomber crew. Bomber Command had the highest attrition rates (pro rata) of all of the services. Their sacrifice and contribution to the war effort has been acknowledged and a monument has been erected.
As a driver, Redina would ferry air crew to and from the Lancaster’s as well as resupplying the planes with bombs.
Mom made lifetime friends in the RAF, but there was intense sadness as many brave young men 18 & 19 years old did not return from their sorties over Germany.
It was here that mom met Canadian Flight Officer, Lloyd W.E. Baines and later married. Shortly before Lloyd went on a volunteer mission over Germany and was shot down, becoming a POW. Dad eventually escaped and joined up with an American infantry unit with whom he fought until repatriated.
Special note to Australian Kerry Barnes for his exhaustive research into Australian Bomber Command and documenting those brave souls who flew missions over Germany including my father, Lloyd Baines.
Mom and Dad married in England and mom was later able to come over to Canada. She loved to recount that she came over on the S.S. Stavangerfjord, the smallest and oldest ship in the Atlantic, in January in very rough seas. “I knew a grand adventure was about to happen” W.T. Pooh (E.E. Milne)
In Canada Redina became a homemaker and eventually a mother (yeah). She excelled at cooking and entertaining (not so much the meatloaf). Her interest in painting began at this time. Many of her pieces now hang in friends’ homes.
Redina later began working at the Fitness Institute which she loved with a passion, and meeting many celebrities. She also became friends with members. Most notably Helga, a dear and trusted friend.
After retiring mom volunteered as an assistant in a public-school setting and later as an ESL facilitator for New Canadians. She kept up her art work and got herself onto Yahoo and the internet.
In later years mom received loving care from family, friends and professionals.
Anar provided nursing care and sage wisdom, facilitating much additional help. A true friend.
Alysha, wow Alysha. She started coming to see mom while in school and university. This continued as Alysha became a renowned musician, teacher and presently as a manager within the Yo Yo Ma Organization. Alysha and mom became incredible friends, bringing mom intense joy and happiness. Leonie provided loving care to mom for over a decade. Better Living has provided exceptional care. Juddef who always came through when we needed her. Krystal who also stepped up. Also, Susan, Janice and Joycenell. Friends to the end were: Nanette, Pamela, Kitty & Valerie (recently deceased).
Barbara and Rosalind, two nieces in England regularly kept in touch via cards and emails. Thank you, mom thought the world of you both.
Mom had a tremendous sense of humour and irony. So, her cremation was delayed. Why??? Because the crematorium burned down. We can hear her laughing.
In accordance with Redina’s explicit written instructions there will be no visitation or funeral service, we will honour that. However, with family and friends we will over time go out and celebrate her wonderful life.
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