Skip to content
May 15, 1933 - July 19, 2022
Julia passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on July 19, 2022. She was born in Lestock, Saskatchewan on May 15, 1933. Her family moved to Union Bay when she was ten years old, and she had fond memories of growing up by the sea.
Julie met her husband Peter at an old-time dance at the Union Bay Hall. Married in 1957, they enjoyed 53 wonderful years together before Peter's passing in 2010. As a young couple, they lived in Langford, Port Hardy and Gold River before settling in Campbell River in 1969 to raise their family.
Julie had many interests and talents; she enjoyed reading, baking, doing crosswords and crafting. She was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, and legendary cook; family favourites included her paella, cabbage rolls and oysters- for people who didn't think they liked oysters! Julie had a zest for life and was always up for a get together and a song and dance. On her 80th birthday she announced that she'd had a full and happy life, and that any more time was a bonus. Though dementia slowed her down in the last couple of years, Julia never lost that twinkle in her eye. Hers was a life well-lived.
Predeceased by her husband Peter, infant son Joseph, parents Andrew and Margaret Vanyo, brothers Frank, Jim and Alex, and sister Elizabeth; she is survived by her children Peter Jr. (Kathy), Stephen (Libby), Megan (Ian), and Scott (Jodi), who will always be grateful for her loving guidance and support, grandchildren Abby, Jack, Halle and Jake, sister June, and many nieces and nephews.
To the very special people at Discovery Harbour Care Centre, we cannot thank you enough for all that you did for our mother.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.


Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.