Peacefully on the morning of August 31, 2021, Elizabeth passed away at the age of 81. Elizabeth was a loving and caring woman who held family close to her heart. She will be deeply missed by her beloved husband of 59 years, Ross, son Geoffrey (Erin), daughters Norene (Yves Campion), Andrea (Paul Astrop) and Judith. Her 4 grandchildren, Matthew, Olivia, Nathan and Grace. Elizabeth will be sadly missed by her brothers and sisters Gerald (Elaine), Eric (Kathy), Diane (Tom), Debbie (Robert) and Michael and her nieces, nephews and cousins. Elizabeth was predeceased by her oldest sister Shirley (Paul) Lindsay.
Elizabeth was born and raised in Winnipeg. After meeting and marrying Ross in 1962, they settled in the Westwood area where all 4 of their children were born. Ross and Elizabeth established strong ties with many families in this neighbourhood that continued with yearly communication for over 45 years. In 1972 the family moved to Unionville, Ontario where Elizabeth once again developed wonderful lasting friendships; she joined the quilting community and began honing her many craft skills: knitting, sewing, needlepoint and cooking. In 1977, the family moved to Sunshine Hills, a suburb outside of Vancouver. Elizabeth began working with Birks where her collection of beautiful home wares started and she remained there for over 10 years. Once all the kids had moved out, Ross and Elizabeth sold the house and moved to a brand new condominium in New Westminster. Many new friendships were fostered there too. Shortly after, Elizabeth decided on a career change and went back to school to acquire office skills and quickly landed a job working with Absolute Software. When Ross and Elizabeth retired in 2003, they caught the travel bug and visited many countries such as France, Ireland, Italy, and Mexico. Month-long car trips to Arizona and Palm Springs took place in late winter and were often accompanied by friends and family members.
Being a mother to her four children meant everything to Elizabeth. She instilled strong family values in each of them and modelled kindness, honesty, and loyalty everyday. Her love carried all of her children through the trials and tribulations of growing up. She instilled a strong work ethic and helped to develop their curiosity and creativity. And then between 1996 and 2000, four grandchildren were born; Matthew, Olivia, Nathan, and Grace who all became her greatest treasures. She so enjoyed bringing the kids together with her for overnight stays and adventures. This started the family's annual summer vacation in Osoyoos, BC. every August for over 13 years.
Elizabeth had many health challenges the past few years. She demonstrated strength and resiliency throughout. She will be greatly missed by all.
A Celebration of Life for Elizabeth will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, October 9, 2021 at Forest Lawn Funeral Home 3789 Royal Oak Ave, Burnaby. *Due to Covid-19 restrictions, the reception following will be by invitation only.*
Memorials may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of British Columbia or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Forest Lawn Funeral Home (www.forestlawn-burnaby.com)
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