Florence Regina Gunnarson

Gunnarson, Florence 1925 - 2024 - Florence (Flo) passed away peacefully on September 15, 2024 in Victoria B.C. following a brief hospitalization. Flo was in her 99th year and was predeceased by her husband Eyfi in 2001.

She leaves behind her son Allen (Susan), granddaughter Erin (Jess) and great grandchildren Xavier and Liv.

Flo was the last of 13 children born to German ancestry who fled persecution in Russia (now part of Ukraine) to settle in Churchbridge Saskatchewan at the turn of the last century.

Flo was raised on the family farm at Churchbridge where she was taught the values of honesty, integrity and compassion, all of which she has passed on to her family

Flo Married Eyfi Gunnarson, also from Churchbridge, following his return from war in Europe. They settled in Tisdale, Saskatchewan where they raised their only child Allen and worked together to establish and operate Tisdale Electric. Flo loved to share stories of her joy during those times and was proud that their store was the first to bring modern conveniences like televisions and refrigerators to Tisdale.

In 1961 the family moved to Campbell River B.C, where Eyfi’s parents had retired. There, they purchased the Big Rock Store and boat ramp, which they operated for many years.

In 1970, they moved to Sooke, B.C and purchased Milnes Landing Store, which they worked at together until 1976. During this time, Flo was very proud of her trusted work as the last Post Mistress for Milnes Landing before it was decommissioned. She was a good listener and enjoyed contact with the locals who came to pick up their mail and often seek her advice on matters.

After the sale of the store, Flo and Eyfi moved to Victoria where she worked part time for Gals Pal clothing store and the Bay.

Flo has been a resident at Alexander Mackie Lodge in Langford since shortly after they opened 17 years ago. She greatly appreciated the care that she received there as well as the many hugs and visits from her caregivers. She genuinely cared for her caregivers and them for her. She particularly enjoyed the years that she spent making cards and playing canasta there.

Flo will most be remembered for how she gave of herself to care for her family. All of us are so much better off for it. She was always there to listen and her family meals were something special.

Flo was blessed to have her intellect and mobility to the end. Her conversation, caring and values will be missed by us all.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and staff at Alexander Mackie Lodge for being her second family. Thank you also to the doctors and nurses who have provided such a high quality of care to her for so many years, ending with a compassionate and peaceful passing.

At her request, there will be no memorial service. Flowers are gratefully declined.