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Mary died on August 7th, 2009 at the Chilliwack General Hospital, at age 93 years.

Mary was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia on August 6th, 1916 and when she was a small child survived the Halifax Explosion. The only daughter of Charles and Olive Forward, she spent her school days in Halifax. She was in the Girl Guide Movement and taught synchronized swimming at the local YMCA. Her family moved to Ottawa and then to Vancouver. She met her husband Harold Bircham Van Horne when they both were playing in the UBC orchestra. They were married on December 29th, 1949 and moved to Chilliwack where their son Philip was born. Mary’s interest in music was an integral part of her life. She was one of the first people on the Chilliwack Arts Council and played cello in the New Westminster Symphony, Chilliwack Symphony and several quartets. In the early 1980’s the Soroptimist International of Chilliwack chose Mary as Woman of the Year in honour of her deep commitment to the Arts Community in Chilliwack. Mary had an extensive collection of dolls and one of her great pleasures was visiting schools and exhibitions to share her knowledge and have fun with the children. Mary served for many years on St Thomas Altar Guild. Some other groups and organizations who benefited from Mary’s membership were: The Business and Professional Women, The Probus Club, Chilliwack Historical Society, Chilliwack Field Naturalists, United Empire Loyalists and the Red Hat Society.

Mary is survived by her husband of 59 years, Harold Bircham Van Horne and their son Philip. Also her brother Dr. Charles Forward and his wife Beverlee, and her brother Arthur Forward and his wife Jean.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held at 2.00 pm on Saturday, August 29th, 2009 at St. Thomas Anglican Church, 46048 Gore Avenue, Chilliwack, B.C.

The family wishes to thank all Mary’s dear friends who’ve been part of her life over these many years.

Donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com



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