Baxandall (Mary) Avis
Dec 6, 1911 - June 29, 2006
Having lived life thoroughly, Avis passed away in the Comox Valley at the age of 94. Avis was born in Harper, Kansas, immigrated to Canada in 1917 and then again in 1925 by covered wagon with her parents Charles and Maude Parsons and her siblings. Her family finally settled in the Westlock, AB area where she grew up, worked, met and married John Baxandall in 1932. Avis and John raised a family, farmed and enjoyed their adventures traveling. They retired to Miracle Beach in 1965 where they gardened, rock-hounded, collected and continued to go on adventures. They re-retired to Courtenay in 1986 where they enjoyed living an easier yet active life. After 72 years of loving marriage John passed away in 2004. Avis then moved to Glacier View Lodge where she made many friends and participated in as many activities possible. She will be fondly remembered by multitudes for her joy of life, her rye sense of humour and loving care and concern.
Avis was also pre-deceased by 1 sister, 4 brothers, and 6 brothers-in-law, 1 son-in-law, 1 grandson and 1 great-grandson. Avis is survived by: daughter Lola Mortensen (Peter Chandler), son Jim Baxandall (Les Kelly), 9 sisters and sisters-in-law, 1 brother-in-law, former daughter-in-law Phyllis Baxandall, 7 grandchildren, 6 step-grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, 14 step-great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, 2 step-great-great-grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews.
If you wish, a donation in honour of Avis’ memory to the Glacier View Lodge Equipment Fund, 2450 Back Road, Courtenay, V9N 9G8 to note the loving, compassionate care she received there during her last years would be greatly appreciated.
A Memorial Service will be held at 10:00, Friday, July 21st, at the d’Esterre House, 1801 Beaufort Avenue, Comox.