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Leila Christine Cant

October 19, 2003

The circle of life is complete for Mom. She had a wonderful life and, at 91, she had a spirit which never diminished although her body eventually failed. She passed away in the warm and loving atmosphere of home, comforted and enveloped by her family. In 1939, after nursing and midwifery training, Mom's adventurous spirit led her from home in Brighton, England to a position in the outpost nursing stations at Cow Head and Rose Blanche, in the colony of Newfoundland. A meeting with Dr. Donald Cant in Stephenville led to romance and marriage. He, had completed medical training in Yorkshire and independently ventured overseas to become Medical Officer on the "Lady Anderson", a hospital ship providing medical care to the isolated communities of the South Coast of Newfoundland. They married in 1942 in Halifax. During the war, Mom returned to England where first son John was born there while Don served with the Canadian forces in Europe. With the return of peace, they returned to Newfoundland. The family grew with Jim born in Harbour Breton, then twins Jennifer and Elizabeth, and finally Daphne all born in Corner Brook. Throughout the years, Mom devoted herself to her family, as well as to the community with hospital auxiliary and other volunteer work. Mom freely accepted criticism of her bread making skills but she was the queen of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding! Mom had an optimistic and positive nature - with a sherry glass never "half empty", but always "half full". Even after losing Don in 1996 and suffering the decline of old age, she vigorously maintained as much independence and contribution to the family as she possible could. Mom always said she was lucky to have such a loving family, but we all know it was her warmth, selflessness and example that made it so. She has been the family matriarch, the hub around which we all have gathered for so long. It has been a sad goodbye, but she has left us a legacy of closeknit and supportive family bonds, and high standards that we will strive to maintain. A memorial event will be held at 12967 - 21 A Ave. in Surrey, B.C. on November 23, 2003 from 2 - 5 p.m.