It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Louise Teresa Decario on April 10, 2023 at her home on Galiano Island, BC. She is survived by her loving husband Brian Mitchell, her children Michael (Marla), Janice (Tom), Suzanne (Stephen) and step-daughter Elise (Eric). She was Grandma D & Gramma D to Caleb (Allison), Talia (Jeff), Tobin (Katie), Robert (Rexx), Kirsty (Aaron), Alexa (Jo); Grandma Louise to Dominic, Philippe; and Great Grandma D to Amiya, Koa, and Esther.

Louise was born in her family home in Burnaby, BC where she grew up, the last of six children (5 born in Canada) to parents from Vallelonga, Catanzaro, Italy. As a family we joked that she was a “smartie”, starting grade one at age 5 and graduating a year early. Her incredible work ethic started at an early age washing dishes at the family business, the Decario Cafe. Then throughout her teens, she was a cashier at the corner Handy Store, a waitress at a tennis club, a sales clerk at Woodwards and a waitress at the Banff Springs Hotel. She took two years of teacher training at the University of British Columbia, finishing her degree on Galiano by correspondence.

At 19 and wanting an adventure, she moved from the big city to begin her career as a school teacher in the remote northern community of Cecil Lake, BC. In later years she became a school teacher-librarian. Louise immersed herself into teaching, farm, family, and community life. She volunteered with the Centennial Hall Association, Nor’ Pioneer Women’s Institute, and the 4-H club.

Louise left the north in 1983 to make Galiano Island her home where she taught kindergarten and grade one until 1999. Retired, but not, she served three (3) terms as Galiano Island Trustee. Louise’s island and community life involved so many interests and activities including fishing, badminton, golf, afternoon swims, the Three Artists show, the Library and the Conservancy. She was interested in genealogy, brushing up on Italian and learning French. She loved bridge, gardening and the company of her large circle of friends. Louise was a strong and thoughtful leader who was dedicated to protecting and preserving Galiano’s green space.  She was an inspiration and mentor to many.

Louise was deeply loved by all of us and her strength, wisdom, and compassion will be dearly missed, but most of all her beautiful smile and her laugh.

Following Louise’s wishes, no service will be held; rather, a Celebration of Life which will be held on Galiano, Thursday, May 25, 2023 at 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

 

Mabel Alexandria Dingwall (lovingly known as Robin), peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of Tuesday, February 28th, 2023 at the age of 84 in Victoria. Robin was born in Regina to Alec and Lilly Dingwall and is predeceased by her two older sisters Ethel and Myrtle (Jan), and her partner Bob Wright.

Robin and Bob are survived by their children Rose, Robert, Mary and James (spouse Sheree), and their grandchildren Jessica and Anika.

Robin worked in banking and accounting. She then spent her retired years giving back by volunteering for over 20 years with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society as a servant to her community. She was deeply devoted to her Pentecostal faith, which was her guiding light throughout her lifetime and beyond.

Robin had a very active mind and loved playing games, particularly cards and spending time with friends notably Anne, Janet, and Ted who were cherished conspirators. She loved to craft, especially sewing and quilting, which she donated to help the less fortunate. Charity and giving back to her community was always on her agenda. Her wisdom, guidance, and shining light will be greatly missed by all those who knew her.

She goes in peace to her eternal life.

The family is profoundly appreciative for the loving hospice care Robin received in the comfort of her passing by the dedicated professionals at the Kiwanis Pavilion.

Anyone wishing to honor Robin’s generosity, kind spirit, and memory, please leave a donation to the Our Place Society of Victoria.

Thank you for all your support during this trying time.

Rob Wright

 

Evelyn Doreen Bremner passed away peacefully on February 8, 2023 at Saanich Peninsula Palliative Care Unit. She will be sadly missed by all who loved her so much.

Evelyn is survived by her children; Rene and husband Neil, Candace and husband Al, Earl and wife Donelda, Pam and partner Bill , Penny and husband Ken (deceased), as well as 12 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. Evelyn is predeceased by her son Guy.

Mom lived with Rene and Neil the past 3 years and enjoyed many special occasions with them, Victoria and partner Dave, Mitch and his wife Cecilia. So many moments and time that they will treasure. Momma loved her visits with Sue and also those with her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.

On April 26^th of this year, Mom would have turned 92 years old. She was known as the “Bead Lady” who loved to make bracelets. She had a little garden full of ‘peas”; her favorite, and raided Rene and Neil’s rhubarb daily to make her famous rhubarb crisp. Mom also LOVED to go to the casino with her children.

Rest in peace Mom. You will always be in our hearts.