Town of Qualicum Beach flags flew at half-staff on Thursday, following the death of a community pioneer and well respected citizen of Qualicum Beach.
Elizabeth Little ran the St. Andrews Lodge and Glen Cottages in Qualicum Beach for much of her 87 years. She was the catalyst behind the Qualicum Beach Historical Society and later the museum, and was involved in the Chamber of Commerce.
“She dedicated her life to the well-being of the community,” said Qualicum Beach Mayor Teunis Westbroek.
“I would like to express, on behalf of council and the whole community, our condolences and sympathy to the family.”
Little was named the town’s citizen of the year in 1983 and was also bestowed the honour of Freeman of the municipality in 1998.
Shannon Willey, general manager of the St. Andrews Lodge, worked with Little for the past six years.
She said Little happily and tirelessly served the community as well as those at the Lodge, and was always offering tea to staff members and visitors.
“Her desire to serve others was who she was,” she said.
The many visitors that returned annually to the Lodge knew the unparalleled old-world hospitality Little offered her guests, said Willey.
Some had been coming to the place for more than 60 years, and in turn their children and grandchildren now come to stay.
Former mayor and historical society member Art Skipsey said the Lodge has remained the same for many years.
“St. Andrews Lodge has sort of resisted the pressure of time,” he said. “It’s pretty well the same now as when it was built.”
Skipsey said Little’s long term guests were like family to her and joyful reunions and traditions happened year after year.
Little’s immediate family resides in California. Her niece Sandie Klein said she was hard working, honest and did everything with integrity.
Little passed away peacefully at Nanaimo General Hospital on Wednesday, March 23.
Both Klein and Willey said Little will be greatly missed by family and friends.