December 2, 2023
In loving memory ~
It is with profound sadness that we must announce the passing of a dear, sweet lady, in the presence of family, on December 2nd, 2023, just shy of her 88th birthday.
Eleanor is predeceased by her husband, Tom (Tommy to her), in 2007, brothers John and Andy, and survived by her daughters Lisa (Kevin) and Nancy, and twin sons Bruce and Derek (Gary), honorary daughter Lorna, nephews, many good friends, some harking back decades to her school days at Crofton House, and also her beloved dog, Chico, and adored cat, Kinka, last remnants of an immense tribe of canids, felids and avians that she lovingly cared for over the years—too many to count or name!
Born in Vancouver, B.C., Eleanor lived most of her life in the Cowichan Valley, moving there in 1971, living in the same grand house, lovingly cured of its many hiccups and malaises as necessary over the accumulating years. She worked previously in Cytology in Vancouver and then in the EMR at Cowichan District Hospital, concluding her professional career at the Cowichan Opportunity Centre. Eleanor was dedicated to dog and cat rescue for much of her life, a concern very dear to her. Over the years she and Tom adopted many animals often specializing in senior citizens in need of complicated care, some hailing from as far away as California. The home was never without a bevy of domestic fauna.
When we remember her, it is above all as a person who epitomized the spirit of kindness in everything, though very practical, too, whose passions for family, animals, friends, and the Arts proved infectious, and whose priorities remained unwavering. She celebrated the great holiday seasons, above all Christmas, with an unrivalled spirit of fun and panache. Every special occasion was just that. And this quality of recognizing Life for its magic and mystery permeated everything. She was an incomparable mother, nonpareil!
We will miss her very deeply,
but she will always be with us there,
in the lit jewel of the heart.
Mum requested no service or flowers, instead donations may be made to one of the very worthy local charities she supported for years, A Home for Hooves Farm Sanctuary.Obituary-