Marjorie Bernice Stevens passed away on October 19, 2006 at Chilliwack BC at age 80 years. She was born September 3, 1926 in Vancouver, BC. Marj is survived by her children; Vicki Stevens (Jim Barteski), Mark (Roxanne) Stevens, Lori Stevens (Ken Roos); grandchildren Tabatha (Kerry) Kolle, Mighele and Luke Stevens, Georgia and Warren Roos; great grandchildren, Amanda and Scott Kolle. She was predeceased by her husband, Edward Stevens (1984) and daughter, Lynn (1959).
Mom was a strong, independent lady who always put her children and grandchildren first. Before her marriage, she worked at various jobs, the most interesting to her children was her stint at the Airport during World War II where she learned to fly airplanes. After marriage to Ted, she focused on her family and helping them to accomplish their dreams.
Mom and Dad had a romantic period touring the country on their harley Davidson motorcycle- in the days before Highway 1- when the roads were concrete, dirt and wooden roads. A motorcycle was the only transportation they had until daughter Vicki was born.
Mom’s greatest pleasures came from children and pets. Her house was open to the many puppies, kittens, frogs and creatures that all the kids in the neighbourhood brought by. She volunteered her time to teen dances and youth nights for many years. And was a Girl Guide and Brownie leader for twenty years. The mailman knew that a letter simply addressed to “ Brown Owl” was for Mom!
After moving to Rosedale in the 70’s, Mom became involved in the “flea-market/garage saleing craze. Mom was known for her home baking and dolls. Her baby clothes were especially famous for their unique fashion- her booties with knitted soles were sought after! She had a very successful business at the Popkum Flea Market where she make life-long friends.
Once all the children had married and settled, mom sold the house in Rosedale and joined the community at the Lynwood Retirement Residence. She loved all of the staff and residents of Lynwood- they became a new community for her. She loved to be involved with the decorating plans, the entertainment and the feeling of family, always keeping and eye out for anyone she thought needed her help or helpful comments! Her years at Lynwood were happy and active ones and her sudden passing there came in the midst of planning her Halloween costume and party!
Mom always loved her kids, grandkids and great grandkids. Christmas was for giving, Halloween was for fun, summer holidays were a relief from sharing her kids with the school and Easter was about the Bunny! She knew her kids were “the best” and loved all their spouses and children ferociously. A hug could always be found at Nana’s. Mum will be loved and missed by her family and friends. We will pass along her stories and have inherited much of her strength. Mom believed you were a success if you helped people and left behind people that remembered you with a smile. Our mom was a huge success!!! Love you always Mom”.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, October 27, 2006 at 11.00 am at St. Thomas Anglican Church, 46048 Gore Ave. Chilliwack; Rev. John Sovereign officiant.