Virginia Ella Rathwell

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Cal, her infant son, and her brother, Ken. She leaves a tremendous void in the hearts of those who loved her most: her sons Kevin (Sherri-Lynne) and Dwayne (Tara); her grandsons Jordan (Megan) and Brenton (Larissa); three cherished great-grandchildren and another on the way; her sister Vivian; and many extended family members and dear friends. To Mom, family was never defined only by blood, but by love — and she chose to love generously and wholeheartedly.

Mom was born in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan but grew up on Vancouver Island. After graduating from Ladysmith Secondary School, she attended business school in Victoria. She married Dad in 1965, and in the early years of their marriage our family moved between Vancouver Island and the Yukon before settling permanently in Ladysmith in 1976.

It was in Ladysmith that Mom began her career at Ladysmith & District Credit Union. Starting as a teller, she worked her way up to Loans Manager, earning the respect of her colleagues and the trust of the community. Along the way, she formed many lasting friendships — a testament to her warmth, integrity, and genuine care for others.

After losing Dad 22 years ago, Mom never remarried. Instead, she embraced new adventures. She discovered a love of cruising and travel, sharing many memorable journeys with her sister and close friends. In the last couple of years of her life, she was happy living at La Rosa Gardens, where she thrived and deeply valued the companionship of staff and fellow residents.

Mom will be remembered for her radiant smile, her kindness, her contagious laugh, her deep love for others, and her unwavering faith. She was a blessing to all who knew her and will forever be held close in our hearts. We take great comfort in knowing she is now home with her Lord and Saviour.

A service to celebrate Mom’s life will be held at Bethel Church in Ladysmith on March 13, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mom’s memory may be made to Children's Miracle Network or the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.