November 9, 1922 – October 21, 2015
Maudy was the granddaughter of pioneers who settled in the Comox Valley during the 1860’s. She was born and grew up on the family farm just outside Courtenay, attended an eight-room school on Cliffe Avenue and graduated from Courtenay High School in a class of 13 students.
Maudy led an active and engaged community life from an early age. Her contribution to the family farm included doing milk delivery runs before and after school. She participated in the High School student council, played trombone in the band and was a member of the basketball and track and field teams. Her Mom died shortly after Maudy’s graduation from high school so Maudy let go of her plans to become a nurse and instead stepped into her Mom’s role to help raise her four younger sisters and brother. As well, Maudy worked for Kay Stephens in Kay’s Confectionary. At the age of 22 Maudy started her career as a businesswoman when she bought the business from Kay. During this time she met George Hobson. They married in 1945 and ran Hobby’s Snack Bar on Fifth Street for 25 years.
Maudy was committed to serving and building her beloved community, possessing an intimate knowledge and recall of its’ history. Her lifelong community service included joining the Courtenay Soroptimist Club in 1947 and she remained a member throughout her life. She has been an eager and committed member of numerous organizations and community projects. While very humble about her accomplishments, she has been recognized on many levels for her contributions to her community, which she regarded as her extended family. She was a “gracious first lady” when her husband George served as Courtenay’s mayor and helped spearhead projects such as the Sid Williams Theatre, Winter Carnival, and 1981 B.C. Summer Games to name a few. She chose to work behind the scenes, providing the “wind beneath the wings” that assured their success.
Maudy was a remarkable mom, grandma, sister, sister-in-law and a good friend to many. She actively participated and supported her children and grandchildren throughout their lives with everything they have been involved in. For example, she coached the CRA’s Blue Devils Swim Club for many years during and after her children’s involvement. Skiing was a big part of her recreational and professional life. As a vibrant business partner in the Forbidden Plateau “Ski Tak Hut” Ski Rental Shop, she provided employment and training for many Valley youths.
Our beloved Mom was one of a kind. She was known and well-loved as a beautiful person who lived her life with dignity and grace. She was a strong, independent, positive, capable and caring woman. She was deeply loved by family, dear friends and many in our community. Maudy was a woman who gave her all to make a difference for everyone, and will be with us forever in our hearts and memories.
Maudy died peacefully in the evening of October 21st at Glacier View Lodge surrounded by the love of her family. She lived a very rich and fulfilling life, touching all with her positive way of being, her wisdom and her humour until the end of her life. Our family thank the many Angels who have surrounded and supported her and ourselves with their loving, compassionate care—Dr. Winter, the Glacier View team, her dedicated caregivers and several faithful, long time good friends. Thanks to each of you for making an unforgettable difference in Maudy’s and our lives.
Maudy is predeceased by her husband George and sister Evelyn Zink. She is sadly missed and survived by her loving family of daughter Leslie and son-in-law John King; son Art and daughter-in-law Jo Ann, grandson Elliott (Elysia), and granddaughter Aynsley (Rod); sisters Kassy Cessford, Bev (Ken) Aitken, and Marie Gordon; and brother Alex (Rene) Urquhart all of the Comox Valley, and all their families, as well as George’s extended family.
A service to Celebrate Maudy’s Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday November 9, 2015 at the Florence Filberg Centre, 411 Anderton Avenue, in downtown Courtenay. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Maudy’s memory to the Comox Valley Community Foundation.
email: cvcf@shawcable.com mail: Box 3126, Courtenay, B.C. V9N 5N4