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February 11, 2019
It is with heartfelt sadness and relief that we announce the passing of our Mom, Leona Miller (Jean). Leona was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Mom passed away from colon cancer in the early hours on February 11 at Hospice at The Views with family by her side. Mom was 82. Mom is survived by her sons Percy of Victoria, Tim of Courtenay, her adopted son Glen Greenhill (Cindy) of Courtenay, and a step-daughter Joanne MacIntyre of Nanaimo. Grandchildren, Miranda, Mariska, and Talisha Miller, Jazzlyn Braddock (Sydney), Tianna Greenhill (Basil), Debbie O'Neill (Shane), Kari MacIntyre (Jamie), and great grandchildren Abigail and Tanner O'Neill, as well as her sister Marie of Prince George, sister- in-law Berna of Nanaimo and several nieces and nephews. Leona was predeceased by her husband Charles Merel (Dusty), her parents, Pauline and Lionel, brother Alvin and infant sister Amanda.

Mom was born in Saskatchewan, but at an early age her family moved to Port Alberni. It is here that she was raised, schooled, and worked until she met the love of her life, Merel. Mom and Dad were married in December 1961 and were together for close to 50 years until his passing in March, 2011. With Dad in the military, there were many adventures as he was posted to Sea Island (Richmond), 4-Wing Germany, Cold Lake Alberta, before calling the Comox Valley home in 1973. Mom was a very hard worker. Many may remember her as a server at Zorbas Restaurant and the Red Ruby Restaurant. Mom enjoyed cooking/entertaining, crocheting, knitting, bowling, and playing cards. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends.

Mom had one speed and that was full steam ahead. If she was up, she was moving! It was a workout to keep up with her. She often used a cane, but at her pace, it was there more for fashion than function. For as long as she could, she bowled 3 days a week and played cards twice a week. Even as her health declined, she was up and out the door as often as she could.

Mom always said she was blessed to be surrounded by so many good friends. There are many to name, but she wanted to acknowledge Barb, Fred & Shirley, Ruby, Lise, Joyce, and Dianne. We also want to recognize the great care from her home support team, nurses/care-aides on 3D, Dr. Thompson, Dr. Dan, and Dr McGhie, The Living Room Pharmacy, The Palliative Care Team, and the special care received from the hospice staff.

There is no service by request. Mom's ashes will be spread with Dad's at Great Central Lake near Port Alberni at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Society or a charity of your choice.



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