Vivian Dorothy Loewen

Vivian Dorothy Loewen (née Kelly) born in Leamington Ontario died at the age of 90. Vivian is survived by her five sons (Michael, Martin, Steven, Danl, and Patrick), their life partners, eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Our mother, Vivian, was an incredibly strong, resilient person who learned early in life how to bob and weave, though she still took more than her share of hard knocks! She quickly discovered that life was not meant to be easy. Vivian and her three younger siblings grew up in the foster care system. She married a military man at eighteen and by 29 was the mother of 5 boys. Throughout her life she faced medical problems with tenacity and a strong belief that she would overcome the challenge. She fought cancer, polyneuropathy, foot amputation, macular degeneration, hearing loss and strokes. She never lost her zest for life, her love of family, her compassion for others.

She outlived all her siblings, two husbands, all of her in-laws and their spouses. Through Covid19, Jordan & Shane Simpson, their daughter Catherine, and Vivian’s niece, Kyra Loewen, brought light into Vivian’s life by visiting her when others were prohibited from travelling. With Vivian’s family spread across Canada, little Catherine was a ‘grandchild’ joy to her. Vivian often remarked that Kyra was a wonderful friend and companion, and how lost she would be without her. The family cannot thank them enough for the kindness and love they shared with our mother. Mom really enjoyed all the cards, letters, photos and phone calls received from friends and family.

To the staff and team of caregivers at Maplewood House, thank-you for the safe and healthy environment and sense of community Vivian was surrounded with during her later years.

Recently, when we chatted with Mom, she would say, “Don’t you cry when I die! I’m ready to go when the time comes – I have had a good life.” She fought the good fight, squeezed all the joy she could out of life, but she had had enough fun! No doubt on arrival in heaven she will ask where the backgammon table is and where the cards are, and question when the music starts so they can get the party going! Vivian was a strong and practical woman with a heart of gold and generous to a fault. Vivian was loved, and she will be missed.

There will be no service by request. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Vivian's name to a charity of your choice.