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March 23, 1927 - July 6, 2022
After a long and active life, May passed away in her 96th year. Loving mother of Patrick (Julia), Brian (Colleen) and Laura Steffen (Hans). Remembered very fondly by grandchildren Clare (Chris), Chris (Silvia), Drew, Deirdre Hopkins (Joseph), Erik Steffen (Katerina), Erin Meeker (Chase) and 11 great-grandchildren. May was pre-deceased by Edwin Demerse, her husband of 73 years, and is survived by sisters Patricia Pelly and Shirley Belanger and sister-in-law Aileen Scott.
Born in Merritt, May moved to Chilliwack at a young age where she resided for most of her life. True to her generation, May dedicated herself to raising her family. She then worked as a medical office receptionist. Upon retirement, May pursued her dreams with passion. Paying homage to their up-country roots, May and Ed built their "idyllic" cabin at Glimpse Lake and, with their faithful dog, enjoyed the pastoral setting for several years before moving to Logan Lake and ultimately returning to Chilliwack. May regarded this interlude as perhaps her happiest.
May was an avid gardener, skier and hiker (a three-time veteran of the West Coast Trail). Her real love, however, was painting. Never indifferent to what she observed, May derived great pleasure creating scenes of vibrant colour. Many family members, not to mention other discerning collectors, proudly display her works.
Dear May, we will miss your beautiful smile.
At May's request, there will not be an official service. A family remembrance will be held later.


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