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January 18, 2022
It is with deep sadness I say goodbye to my loving and beautiful mom Carol, who passed away on January 18, 2022 at age 76. Her absence leaves a big hole, but it is partially filled by cherished memories. She was my biggest fan and supporter, my mentor and teacher. I respected her and will forever be grateful to have had her for a parent.
She was predeceased by her mother Myrle, her brother Michael and her ex-husband John. She leaves behind her daughter Kelly, beloved dog Dharma, sister Lynn and family, many cousins and cherished friends. Carol was born in 1945 in a small Alberta mining town called Wayne. She grew up in Sudbury and then moved to Calgary after finishing school. It was in Calgary that she met her husband John, they married in 1967 and three years later Kelly was born. John had family on the west coast and they soon found themselves settled in Campbell River. The marriage eventually ended, but years later, a true friendship emerged that lasted until John's death in 1997.
While in Campbell River, Carol worked for many years as a legal secretary, then in 1984 decided to pursue a university education. She excelled as a 'mature student' and achieved two degrees, with honours, in Psychology and Social Work and was the first in her family to do so. She practiced as a counsellor in Port Hardy for a few years, and eventually became a social worker in the Ministry for Children and Family Development in Nanaimo; first in child protection then later in guardianship. She cared deeply about "her kids" and was a dedicated advocate in what she often experienced as a broken system. She formed special bonds with many because of her firm but kind approach. Outside of work, she was an avid reader, with a terrific dry wit, a brilliant and curious mind, and a gift for words. Carol was fundamentally strong and principled; she spoke up for what she believed in, cared deeply about animals and their welfare, and gave generously to many charities and causes over the years. Carol did beautiful cross stitch, and gave many pieces away as gifts, often to commemorate births of children. She was also a great cook who made legendary lasagna, Nanaimo bars and shortbread.
Many thanks to her physicians in Victoria, and the amazing care team at Beacon Hill Villa who went above and beyond to assist and care for her in her final months. While she deeply grieved her loss of independence and acuity, she was simultaneously unfailingly gracious and grateful for the help she received. "Thank you for everything" was her constant parting refrain. There will be no funeral service, but a celebration of her life, to be held in Nanaimo in the coming months when circumstances allow for it. For now, please consider honoring her memory with a donation to the SPCA, or to organizations that empower women and youth, or simply by practicing kindness towards others. Life is short, but we have time to leave things a little better than we find them, as she tried to do.
Condolences may be left at: www.earthsoption.com
Earth's Option Cremation & Burial Services

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