Margaret Jean Tilson

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Margaret was a popular and beautiful girl, the daughter of two Scots, Frank and Margaret Wilson. She was part of a “group of five” friends, four from grade six that she regularly met with for the rest of their lives.

She married her adoring husband Harold in 1943 and had her first child, Brent, a year later, followed by Carolyn, Derek, and Anne.

Often left to raise their children by herself while Harold was in the air force training pilots and flying search and rescue helicopters, she made very close friends with the other wives on the base. Harold joked that he would often fly over and tip his wings when he saw Margaret out in the yard of the base having tea with her friends as the children played nearby.

When Harold finally retired, they moved to Vancouver Island, first to Mill Bay and then to Victoria. They loved the coast and their gardens as well as boating and swimming on Shawnigan Lake.

Mum sewed and knitted, lovingly knitting handmade socks for Harold and occasionally for the boys. And what delicious meals she prepared! When the children were in school, she worked at various jobs including a doctor’s receptionist and an office worker and sales person. She volunteered as a candy striper at the hospital in Calgary, taught Sunday school, and canvassed for charities as well. An accomplished musician, she loved music and took her Hammond organ to various hotels and venues to entertain the patrons. She loved nature and loved to walk. Always considerate, she put others before herself. She loved to live.

We will sorely miss our beloved Mother and Nana, a loving and gentle woman who passed away just a few months short of her 102nd birthday. Mum was predeceased by her husband Harold, her grandson Colin and his wife Mary, her parents, and her sister Gladys Burton. Those left to cherish her memory are Brent and April Tilson; Carolyn and Dave Hockley; Derek and Bev Tilson; Anne Ancelin and Bill Long; her grandchildren: Luke and Lane; Derek and Leanne; Travis and Tyler; Ryan, Landi and Kyle; and their partners, as well as many great grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Her family were her life and she was theirs.

Our thanks to the excellent care given to her in The Salvation Army Sunset Lodge.

Due to Covid, there will be a private family gathering. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be made to the Salvation Army Sunset Lodge, 952 Arm St. Victoria, BC V9A 4G7.

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