Alice Eileen passed away peacefully on August 5, 2003 at Vancouver. Born on November 29, 1911 at Kenora Ontario, but spent her early childhood in Lynn Valley, North Vancouver.
Predeceased by her cherished husband Wrayburn, son Michael and daughter Naomi, and sisters Nora and Daisy.
Survived and remembered by her son Samuel (Mary); daughters Leanne DeMarco (Steve) and Shelene Kehrer (Pete), daughter-in-law Marion, and grandchildren Jeremy and Casey Balden, Melissa, Brad and Hailey DeMarco, Jason, Chris and John Pulay, and Bruce and Elizabeth Balden, and nieces, nephews and their families. Eileen's principal residences were in West Vancouver, Maple Ridge, Abbotsford, White Rock, and latterly Vancouver.
Graduating from High School at 15, Eileen attended Normal school for teacher training, passing with distinction and winning the gold medal for physical education. Early B.C. teaching positions were in Newlands, Tofino and Powell River, and Athlone School (Vancouver). In West Vancouver Eileen ran the very successful Maple Leaf Kindergarten from her home, at a time when kindergarten was not part of the school system. She also taught English as a second language for the Vancouver School Board (and much later for the Surrey School Board) and did some private teaching from her home.
Music played an important part in Eileen's life and until the last few years she always enjoyed singing and playing her piano and electric organ. She was known for her work incorporating songs and singing into her English language instruction, much to the delight of her many students.
Church was an important part of her life, and she usually attended the local Anglican Churches where she sang in the choir. She liked to knit and crochet; she loved her gardens in her several homes, and put swimming pools in at two of them; and she enjoyed entertaining her students, former students, choir members and friends.
Her last years were difficult for someone who had lived a strong, vital life, and had coped with many tragedies and hardships. Her family wishes to thank the staff at Crofton Manor and Yaletown House for the care and attention she received while residing at each place.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. at Kerrisdale Presbyterian Church (where Eileen briefly attended when at Crofton Manor), 2733 West 41st Ave., Vancouver. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.