After a long and courageous struggle with cancer, Gladys McCaughan died on October 27, 2003, surrounded by members of her loving family. Gladys, born into a pioneer Chilliwack family on May 25, 1923, was the fith child of Lorenzo Leroy Maynard and Audrey Alice Maynard (nee Collinson).
Gladys is survived by Alexander, her husband of 57 years; and three children, Jim (Karen) McCaughan of Sardis and their family: Kathy (Chad) Whittome, Kristy, Daniel, Jillian (Aaron Fraser); Jane (Campbell) Vincent of Ballarat, Australia and their family: Amanda (John, Sarah, Sam), Nicole, Bridget, Adrian, Alice, and Mark (Laura Anker) and their family: Chealsey, Darren, Vanessa.
She is also survived by sisters, Alice Carter, Florence Drake, Mavis (Roy) Talpey, Bea (Syd) Mawbey, Mae Hill, Vivian (Norman) Hetland; brothers, Wes (Lois), Alfred, Fred, Donny (Lila); sisters-in-law, Phyllis, Marion; brother-in-law Ray Marlatt; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents; sister Elsie Marlatt; brothers, Leroy, Delmer, and Dick.
Gladys lived her entire life in Chilliwack, and along with Alex, operated a successful family business called Fairway Furniture. During their retirement, they enjoyed many motorhome trips throughout North America, as well as several trips to Australia. Her many interests included nature, gardening, reading, and Tai Chi. She loved sharing her zest for life with her family, particularly her grandchildren to whom she was devoted.
A Service of Remembrance was held for Gladys on Friday, Oct. 31, 2003 at the Valley Christian Church (formerly Sumas United Church) in Greendale. This was the church she attended as a child, was married in, and returned to as congregation member in later life. Pastor Mitch Belobaba officiated and honourary pallbearers were Barb Dixon, Kathleen Dyck, Bev Figgitt, Sharon Gaetz, Gladys Lindgren, Agnes McKnight, and Karen Whittome.
We would like to thank the staff of McIntosh Lodge for their loving care to Gladys and for the compassion shown to all of the family members during the past 18 months.