LUOMA, Camille Iris
November 1, 1948 ~ April 10, 2007
With much sorrow we announce the passing of our trooper, Camille. She fought, with great courage, an aggressive ovarian cancer. She slipped quietly away from us on April 10, 2007 at Marion Hospice in Vancouver. They made the end of this life’s journey as painless as possible. Her last words to me were “Happy Easter to everyone”.
Camille was born in the old Cumberland Hospital, and was a very sweet little blond haired, blue-eyed child. She attended primary school in Royston, B.C. Being a very bright student, she was able to complete primary grades a year early. Her junior high years at Lake Trail were also productive. Upon moving to Vancouver with her mother, Camille attended McGee High School, from which she graduated in 1965.
Camille was artistic, a talented typist, and a very good writer. She held a variety of jobs over the years and became a supporter of: Greenpeace, World Wildlife Federation, Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Nelson Mandela and CBC radio were high on her list of interests. She was an articulate person who liked to socialize. Her love of beauty could be found in her collection of clothes, jewellery, dolls, teddy bears and beauty products, which she generously shared with family and friends.
Unfortunately, as her mental illness became more severe, her capacity to work diminished. Her giving nature, kind thoughts and cards will be remembered by many. Her need for creating beauty was far greater than a balanced budget. Good karma to those who helped her realize some of her dreams.
Camille was predeceased by her father, E.H. Luoma, mother, Lillian May Luoma, and her sister, Angela Bowering. She is survived by her sister, Joan Wright, brothers-in-law George Bowering and Bob Wright. Also, nieces Trisha Reid (David), Kelly Wright and Thea Bowering. Great nieces Jenny Balon (Trent), Erin Dunsire (Ken) and great-nephew James Reid. Their children: Tyler, Baylee, Aidan, Nicholas and Isaac. Other relatives include the LUOMA, MARTIN, WARBURTON and families.
There are many people to thank, Dr. Janet Lyons, Dr. Marcus, the staff at Marion Place Hospice, Van. Cancer Clinic, home and palliative care and the Masons. Thanks also to Venture House and the Kettle Society. A huge thank you to the West Side Care Team, especially Debbie Campbell and Paula. To Patricia MacKenzie and Jane Gaudry for their friendship toward Camille. Family was very important in her life, as was her extended family.
In lieu of flowers, phone a friend and share a treat. Donations can be made to Marion Hospice, 9th Floor 900 West 12th St., Vancouver, B.C. V5Z1N3 or West Side Care Team, #200 - 4088 Cambie St., Vancouver, B.C. V5Z2X8.
There will be a gathering from 2-4 pm to commemorate Camille on Sunday, May 6, 2007 at the home of Joan Wright, 2943 Lupton Road, Courtenay, B.C. Funny stories are welcome.