MITCHELL, Gwen
Born on Denman Island on May 20, 1919, the youngest of five sisters, Gwen died peacefully in her sleep on October 13, 2006. Predeceased by her husband Fred, she is survived by three sons: Ted (Sandra), Michael (Cathie) and Murray (Pam); seven cherished grandchildren: Christopher, Meghan, Matthew, Claire, Rachael, Josh and Sydney; sister Beulah Tipper (a delightful and regular weekly correspondent for many years); nephews and nieces (including Shirley Burgess who was also Gwen’s close friend and travelling companion on several exciting vacations), as well as numerous other family members, friends and acquaintances.
Gwen will be remembered for many wonderful things including her trademark smile, marvelous baking (especially those pies!), wry quips and a dry sense of humour. She was devoted to family and seemed infinitely capable in all things domestic. She was a longstanding member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Victoria and the Queen City Chapter # 5 of the Eastern Star. While a stroke led to her stay in extended care for the past several years she maintained a keen interest in those around her and exhibited genuine concern for others. She was open-minded, loved to read and demonstrated an impressive awareness of current events. She was also a committed hockey fan. Above all, however, Gwen sought always to be positive and never gave up on life.
The family wishes to extend thanks and appreciation to family physician, Dr. Sebba, as well as to the many very capable and compassionate professional staff and other employees at Inglewood Care Centre in West Vancouver.
Service will be held at Sands Funeral Chapel, 1803 Quadra Street, Victoria, BC on Saturday, October 21, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. with a Graveside Service at Hatley Memorial Gardens, Sooke Road. Following the service a reception will be held at the Burgess residence after 3:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the S.P.C.A. or an alternate act of kindness in Gwen’s memory would be appreciated.