December 2, 1951 - February 2, 2022
With loving family by her side, Sherry peacefully passed away at Victoria General Hospital as a result of complications arising from a surgery. She will be greatly missed by her soulmate and husband of 54 years, Len, daughter Kerry (Len Mar), son Chris (Heather), 8 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, sister Gwen, and brothers Garry, Brian (Cindy), Roy (Adina), and Darrell (Tina).
Sherry was predeceased by her parents Gary and Alvina, sisters Brenda and Debra, brother Robert, and friend John Vissa, for whom she was honoured to work as a caregiver for many years.
Born to one of BC's pioneer families, Sherry grew up in Nanaimo, raised her family mostly in the Interior, and settled in Port Alberni in 1985. Always a hard worker, she made her mark in various service industries, including as a restauranteur and as the long-time operator of the Tyee Village Motel. She built many special friendships and especially appreciated learning about Indigenous histories and traditions from local First Nations friends.
Sherry tackled setbacks with stubborn determination and delighted in her home, her garden, crafting, and her beloved cat, Miss Kitty. She also enjoyed travelling the world with her husband: they celebrated many adventures 'off the beaten path' - including several months' backpacking and touring the hostels and sights of Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand in Sherry's late 60s.
Although Sherry could seem quiet and reserved, friends learned she had a caring heart, a teasing sense of humour - and that when she was most comfortable, her smile lit up the room.
No formal service, by request; family and friends may gather to share memories at a later date. You can also post memories online at https://www.arbormemorial.ca/en/sands-nanaimo
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Sherry's memory to the West Coast Hospital Foundation's Port Alberni Hospital Emergency Department Expansion Challenge are appreciated. (http://www.wcghfoundation.com WCGH Foundation 3949 Port Alberni Highway Port Alberni BC V9Y 4S1)
~ As she heads off on this journey, we know she will always be loved, never forgotten ~
