September 29, 1934 – February 7, 2013
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Mom, Granny, Sister, and Aunt, Mary Hill. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her. She was predeceased by her Mother and Father, Christina and James Kergan, her husband Harry Hill, and her brother Robert Kergan.
She is survived by her children James Hill (Donna) of Vancouver, Lawrie Hill of Vancouver, Ross Hill (Christine) of Boston, Massachusetts (USA), and Moira Ashlee (Grant) of Comox, her grandchildren Michaela and Aleah Ashlee of Comox and Kergan Hill of Boston, Massachusetts (USA), and her sister Lawrie Peters (Victor) of Brentwood Bay, and her loving dog Tasha.
Mary was born in Edmonton, Alberta in September 1934. Her family moved several times before finally settling in Drumheller, Alberta where she graduated from High School. Mary then attended the University of Manitoba where she received a Bachelor of Science degree.
Mary had a passion for music. She began playing violin at an early age and this became the focus of her life. In 1954 she met her Husband, Harry Hill and they married in 1957 and had a family of four children. Mary worked as a Laboratory Technician off and on for many years but her main career, which she began around 1970, was teaching Suzuki Violin through Talent Education in Edmonton. In 1979, Mary and Harry moved to the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island. Mary then started a Suzuki Violin program which nurtured many young musicians until 2008 when she finally retired. As a result of her passion and expertise for teaching, a number of Mary’s students have gone on to have prominent careers in music. She was a gentle, patient teacher who understood her students well.
Thanks to Mary and Harry’s lifetime dedication to music, their own children have pursued careers in music and education.
Mary had many hobbies. She loved reading, enlightened conversation, crocheting, knitting, playing video games and looking after her many cats and dogs, especially her faithful companion Tasha. She always loved playing and listening to classical music and Chamber music.
Mary was an intelligent, witty, and patient individual who, in certain situations, was also capable of voicing her opinion. Mary loved going out for dinner with family and friends and she always enjoyed a good beverage. She was very proud of her children and grandchildren and loved them very much.
A Celebration of Life for Mary will be held either late spring or early summer.
The family would like to thank Dr. Thomas and the ICU staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital, for their compassionate care and tremendous support during a difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to The Canadian Lung Association or the S.P.C.A.